This article is part of our #FirstWord series to provide context on trending news.
On Saturday, September 1, 2018, a gastroenteritis outbreak was recorded in Charanchi local government of Katsina State. So far, 15 people have been confirmed dead and 24 hospitalised as a result of the spread of the disease.
Yusuf Radda, the caretaker committee chairman of Charanchi local government, disclosed that the outbreak caused panic among residents of the affected communities: Malali, Banye, and Charanchi town. According to him, a team of medical experts have been sent to render services to the victims at the comprehensive health care centre in the local government.
What is Gastroenteritis?
Also known as Stomach flu, Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is typically caused by different viruses or bacteria, some of which are the world’s most common causes of diarrhoea in infants and young children.
The primary symptoms of Gastroenteritis are diarrhoea, vomiting, cramps, and nausea. Children under the age of 5 are more likely to contract the virus, although it affects people of all ages. The infection is mostly spread through contact with someone who has it, contaminated water or food, and poor hygiene.
Response?
Considering that Nigeria is already battling an outbreak of Cholera in some parts of the country, a looming Gastroenteritis problem is worrying.
Yusuf Radda has called on the Katsina State government to come to the aid of the local government. According to him, drugs have been provided for affected residents, but intervention from the health commission is paramount.
He also admonished residents to embrace personal hygiene to reduce the spread of the disease.
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