Cholera Outbreak Claims Lives in Delta Riverine Community Amidst Lack of Healthcare and Clean Water
A resident of Ikpide-Irri, a riverine community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, has reportedly died following a cholera outbreak that has devastated the area.
The deceased, identified as Benson, a man in his 40s, passed away early Tuesday after suffering severe vomiting.
Confirming the tragic loss, a family member told SaharaReporters, "We have lost a worthy son. Benson was a young, promising man full of life and in perfect health. Suddenly, he began vomiting uncontrollably. Unfortunately, we have no functional hospital or health center in Ikpide. Our drinking water is contaminated. Benson was too good and too young to die. Oh God, why my family?"
Sources revealed that Benson was buried shortly after his death. At least five other residents reportedly died last week due to the outbreak, including four women and one man. All victims experienced severe vomiting and diarrhea, but the lack of functional healthcare facilities in the community prevented them from receiving timely medical care.
Residents described enduring a two-hour journey to access medical facilities in Oleh, the local council headquarters. Meanwhile, most community members rely on the contaminated river for drinking water as the only two boreholes in the area have been out of service for years.
Government officials had previously tested the river water and confirmed it was unsafe for consumption. Residents were warned to stop drinking from the river, with promises of alternative water sources that have yet to materialize.
The recent deaths have spurred the intervention of the council chairman, Friday Ovoke Warri, who has reportedly deployed medical personnel and supplies to the community in an effort to contain the outbreak and prevent further casualties.
This tragic situation highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare access and clean water in the underserved riverine community, as residents continue to grapple with preventable health crises.
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