AFRO-NETS> Disease outbreak in Nigeria

[A Odutola <chpss_abo@yahoo.com>]

Disease outbreak in Nigeria
---------------------------

Report from http://www.datelinehealth-africa.net


Nigeria 
Infectious disease claims 12 lives in Kano

The Guardian
Published Date: November 28 2002
Posted Date: November 28 2002

By Adamu Abuh

Medical experts in the ancient city of Kano are still trying to put 
an end to the outbreak of the infectious gastro-enteritis epidemic 
that has so far claimed 12 lives.

Residents of the densely populated Kano metropolis are worst hit by 
the contagious disease, which symptoms include stooling and vomiting.

The Guardian investigations revealed that no fewer than 300 of the 
victims of the epidemic have received medical attention at the Infec-
tious Disease Hospital (IDH) in the metropolis.

Besides, it was further learnt that the state government had procured 
and supplied fluids for usage in strategic hospitals in the metropo-
lis.

The principal Medical Officer at the IDH, Dr. Sani Jubril, who spoke 
to The Guardian, affirmed that there is no cause for alarm on the 
outbreak of the epidemic.

He disclosed that the situation was being contained, adding that 
cases of fresh infection were after the initial upsurge of the infec-
tion, which claimed several lives.

He noted: "The situation is being stabilized. The cases are reducing 
and we are not recording any incidence of mortality any longer since 
we sprang into action."

He further disclosed that a team of medical experts have started dis-
infecting suspected sources.

The state Health Ministry, he added, was investigating the immediate 
source of the infection just as he did not rule out poor hygienic 
condition.

He, however, said the disease should not be misconstrued for cholera, 
which is known to be responsible for losses of lives in the state 
over the years.

Also in Ebonyi, at least 14 persons have been confirmed dead in Ndi 
Obasi Oso-Edda community in Edda-East Local Council area, following 
an outbreak of influenza in the area.

Source: 
Guardian, Thursday, November 28, 2002. Pg: 5. By Adamu Abuh. 

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