By Marie-Therese Nanlong

A cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of two residents and left 18 others hospitalized in Kwalmiya, Kanam District, within Plateau State’s Kanam Local Government Area.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, confirmed the situation to Vanguard in Jos and highlighted ongoing efforts to prevent further spread, urging residents to report suspected cases immediately to health authorities.

Dr. Shurkuk explained, “We woke up this week to the report of a suspected cholera case in the Kwalmiya community…we mobilized resources, and from the assessment, 20 people were affected.” He further noted that of the 20, two succumbed to the illness, while the remaining 18 received treatment, with 16 already discharged and two still under care. Health teams are working with local Primary Healthcare facilities, and necessary medical supplies have been provided.

The Commissioner also cautioned citizens across Plateau to be vigilant and practice strict hygiene, especially in treating water, washing fruits, and regular handwashing to avoid contamination. He stressed the importance of boiling water if clean sources are unavailable and avoiding open defecation. He acknowledged that delayed information may have impacted the outcome for some patients, urging communities to communicate promptly in suspected cases.

In addition, Dr. Shurkuk stated that his Ministry is collaborating with the State Ministry of Water Resources to address Kwalmiya’s water access issues. The community currently relies on a single well for drinking water due to two non-functional boreholes. The local government council has been urged to repair these boreholes to provide safer water sources for residents.