- Delta Govt: We’re Collecting Samples, Investigating Causes Of Deaths
From Ameachi Prosper (The New Diplomat’s Delta Correspondent)
No fewer than 15 persons have reportedly died in the last two weeks over a mysterious desease in Ute Okpu and Idumesa communities of Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Commissioner for Health in Delta state, Dr. Mordi Ononye confirmed this when he led a team of public health officials to the communities with a view to unraveling the mysterious disease that has claimed the lives of over 15 persons within 18 to 25 years age bracket in the past 2 weeks.
According to the Commissioner, “Delta State Government has received information on seemingly mysterious deaths in Ute Okpu and Idumesa communities of Ika North East Local Government Area of the State which prompted the Governor, His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, to direct the State Ministry of Health to immediately investigate these deaths, identify the causes and effect containment measures”.
Dr. Ononye, called on members of the community and residents of the state to observe good hygiene as the dry season approaches by properly covering their food, cutting grasses around their surroundings, eliminate rats in their houses and continue to observe the COVID-19 safety guidelines especially, hand washing with soap and running water.
Dr. Richard Ikwuogu, the State Epidemiologist said that his office sent officers to the community immediately the information reached the Ministry of Health, stating that the active case search that commenced the previous day continues.
He added that his team has visited the families of the affected persons in the community and has collected their samples and interviewed them.
Dr. Ikwogu said that although he suspects viral hemorrhagic fever, or drug intoxication, the outcome of the test on collected samples will give clear information on the disease and that will determine the next line of action.
