The Benue state government has begun investigation into reports of an outbreak of a strange illness ravaging community members in Okpeilo-Otukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of the State.
The Commissioner for Health in the state, Mr. Emmanuel Ikwulono, disclosed this in a press statement signed by the permanent Secretary, Mr. Andrew Amee and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.
According to the commissioner, 17 person have already lost their lives due to the strange illness.
The statement read in part, “We have received a report of an unknown illness in a community called Okpeilo-Otukpa in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State.
“At the time of the receipt of the report yesterday, 9th November, 2020, about 17 persons were already said to have died of the illness.”
He stated that one case is currently being treated at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, after being brought in by a relative while others are receiving treatment in different hospitals.
The commissioner said the illness has symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain and general body weakness, while some infected persons stool and vomit with tinges of blood.
He noted that state Government is aware of the outbreak and has responded swiftly to facilitate investigation to establish the cause of the illness.
“His Excellency, Governor Samuel Ortom has approved funds to enable the State Ministry of Health and Human Services to carry out the investigation.
“In the meantime, we advise the people of Ogbadibo and its environs to maintain good hygiene practices and report anyone with the said symptoms to the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers in the local government area, or call the Benue Emergency Operations Centre on the following toll free telephone numbers: 09010999920, 09010999919
Whatapp, SMS 08123135458.
