•Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State
Panic has gripped the Mbutu community in Aboh Mbaise Local Council of Imo State following the deaths of six children, aged between one and six years, due to an outbreak of a mysterious disease.
The Executive Chairman of the council, Mr Henry Alaribe, disclosed the development in a press statement issued through his spokesperson, Dike Godspower, yesterday.
He revealed that new cases have been reported, though these are yet to be confirmed, reports The Guardian.
As part of measures to curb the spread, Alaribe announced the temporary closure of all schools in the area and the suspension of the Children’s Day celebration scheduled for May 27. He urged parents to ensure their children are vaccinated and called on residents to remain calm while cooperating with authorities.
Alaribe said details of the victims, including their names, ages, and their parents’ contact information, had been forwarded to the state governor, Hope Uzodimma.
He further stated that health centres in the area have been designated as isolation centres for suspected cases, while officials from the World Health Organisation (WHO) have arrived to assist in managing the outbreak.
“Just this morning, we learnt of another death, though it is yet to be confirmed. We are leaving no stone unturned in curbing the outbreak and ensuring the safety of our children,” he said.
The council boss reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, noting, “WHO and the Department of Disease Prevention and Control in the Imo State Ministry of Health are working closely with health staff from Aboh Mbaise to investigate and contain the disease. Plans are underway to collaborate with the state government and relevant agencies.”
In response to the crisis, many residents of Mbutu are reportedly evacuating their children and wards from the community. The outbreak has left the community in a state of anxiety, with parents scrambling to protect their families.
