A cholera outbreak has claimed three lives in Bulu-Ndoro, a community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, while many others remain critically ill.
Some of the affected residents have been taken to a hospital in neighboring Bayelsa State for medical care.
Arede Edeinmene, an Executive Assistant on Political Matters to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, raised concerns over the severity of the outbreak while addressing journalists in Warri.
He called on the state government to take urgent action to prevent further loss of lives, noting that the disease has spread rapidly, affecting nearly every household.
One of the major issues worsening the situation, according to Edeinmene, is the community’s reliance on contaminated river water for drinking and domestic use.
He explained that the outbreak has overwhelmed the local health center, which lacks the necessary personnel and medical resources to handle the crisis.
He urged the government to provide additional healthcare workers, medical supplies, and essential equipment to support the overstretched facility.
He also expressed deep concern over the fact that those who have died were primary providers for their families, worsening the hardship in the community.
The lack of access to clean water has further fueled fears among residents, as the Bulu-Ndoro River—their main source of water and livelihood—remains unsafe for use.
Some families have already fled the community to avoid contracting the disease.
Edeinmene emphasized the need for swift intervention from the state government to support Burutu Local Government’s efforts in managing the outbreak.
He also called for the upgrade of the community’s health center, including the deployment of a resident doctor and improvements in water supply and electricity to enhance healthcare services.
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