By Chukwudi Nwauba :
Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike has reaffirmed the commitment of his Ministry in disease prevention and treatment across the state.
Dr. Obidike said this during an emergency meeting with the State Health Emergency team in Awka.
The Commissioner explained that he usually convenes the routine meeting so as to brainstorm and review on health related issues in the state.
“It is another opportunity for us to coordinate response, strategize and share information and updates, we are able to make urgent decisions that will help us ensure effective communication and collaboration.
“This crucial meeting was also to assess and bolster preparedness for the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nigeria and I am happy that we are ready for any outbreak although we are not praying to witness any but the truth is that disease outbreaks is usually unpredictable.’’
He acknowledged the invaluable support extended by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organisation (WHO) in areas such as surveillance, risk communication, and WASH.
The Commissioner encouraged the team to continue strengthening their preparedness efforts while expressing his sincere appreciation for their unwavering dedication and commitment in discharging their duties.
Dr. Chuma Emembolu, the State Epidemiologist, provided a comprehensive overview of proactive measures undertaken to control the outbreak.
Dr. Emembolu said that the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (ANPHEOC) has since been placed on ALERT MODE due to recent confirmed cases in neighbouring states.
Mr. Chris Ideh, leading the Laboratory Pillar, thanked the Commissioner for giving approval for him to distribute cholera Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits to Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs).
Mrs. Uju Onwuegbuzina, heading the Risk Communication pillar, was tasked with leveraging the 326 community mobilizers trained through COVID-19 Preparedness Plan Project (Coprep) funds to enhance risk communication strategies and raise public awareness effectively.
Dr. Rose Amasiani, responsible for WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), highlighted the critical importance of conducting thorough training sessions on proper hand washing techniques, sanitation practices, and ensuring access to safe water sources.
In attendance during the meeting include, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Dr. Mrs. Obiageli Uchebo, Dr. Emembolu Chuma, State Epidemiologist, Mr. Chijioke Chinemelu, Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer, Mrs. Uju Onwuegbuzina, Risk Communication pillar lead and State Health Educator, Mr. Chris Ideh, Laboratory pillar lead, Dr. Rose Amasiani, Food Safety and Hygiene Program Officer and Mr. David Okudoh, Situational Awareness Focal Person.
*Nwauba is of the State Ministry of Information, Anambra State.*
