The Abia State Ministry of Health has issued a statement emphasizing that Abia State has not recorded any confirmed positive case of cholera within the period under review.


In the statement, the Ministry stated that following an alert from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on the increasing incidence of cholera cases nationwide, a total of 109 *suspected* cases of cholera have been reported in the State from January to June 2024, across six local government areas:


Ohafia: 1 case

Ikwuano: 9 cases

Osisioma: 1 case

Bende: 17 cases

Umunneochi: 39 cases

Arochukwu: 42 cases


"However, only two of the samples collected tested positive using rapid diagnostic testing (RDT), both samples were sent to the National Reference Lab in Abuja, and were confirmed negative for cholera", the statement affirmed 


"Nevertheless, in light of the ongoing outbreak reported in some States, the Ministry has instituted response measures towards prevention and identification of any suspected cases, and appropriate treatment. As part of the intervention, citizens are advised to continue to observe preventive measures to stay safe.


"Preventive Measures Include: ensuring access to safe drinking water practicing sanitation including proper handwashing and maintaining personal hygiene


"Handling food safely and washing fruits and vegetables properly before consumption; Cooking food properly before eating same; Avoiding roadside food and drinking untreated water" 


The Ministry of Health urges citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of cholera.