Cross River State authorities have issued a cautionary advisory following concerns of a potential outbreak of viral haemorrhagic fever in the vicinity of old Ndebeji, located within the Akamkpa Local Government Area of the state. The warning, issued on Saturday, underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for proactive measures to mitigate any potential health risks.
Viral haemorrhagic fever encompasses a range of infectious diseases that disrupt the blood’s clotting ability, posing significant health hazards. Notable examples include Ebola and yellow fever. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, based in Calabar, disclosed that a suspected index case is currently under investigation, receiving comprehensive care within isolation at the Ndebeji healthcare center.
Dr. Ayuk emphasized that prompt action is underway, with the state’s epidemiologist and her team collaborating closely with local health authorities to promptly collect samples from suspected cases for rigorous diagnosis. The approach includes implementing palliative case management strategies and enforcing stringent infection prevention and control protocols within the healthcare facility. Additionally, community engagement efforts, led by community leaders, aim to identify and limit the movements of individuals in close contact with suspected cases until conclusive test results are obtained.
Highlighting common symptoms associated with the condition, Dr. Ayuk urged residents to remain vigilant, noting that early signs may include fever, rash, weakness, and bleeding from various bodily openings. He also stressed the importance of preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with rodents and insects, and advised the use of personal protective equipment when interacting with livestock, and animals, or visiting zoological facilities.
The proactive stance taken by Cross River State underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health and underscores the collaborative efforts between health authorities and local communities in addressing potential health threats effectively.