The Sokoto State Ministry of Health has ramped up its efforts to combat an outbreak of heavy metal poisoning, with 34 patients currently receiving treatment at a specialised hospital.
The outbreak, which has been under investigation for over two years, has prompted swift intervention from state health authorities and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
During a press briefing, Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Wurno, announced that a high-level stakeholders’ meeting had been held to develop effective case management and containment strategies.
“We have adopted the same treatment protocol used in previous cases, and a dedicated committee is overseeing patient care at special hospitals,” he said.
Wurno also confirmed that additional cases have been reported across multiple local government areas, with some patients receiving palliative treatment at general hospitals.
“All principal health officers have been placed on high alert, and essential medical supplies are being dispatched to affected areas.
“The exact source of the poisoning remains under investigation. While previous studies suggest contamination from heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium, the NCDC and the African CDC are conducting further research to pinpoint the primary cause. Samples collected two weeks ago are currently being analysed,” he added.
Reassuring the public, Wurno emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis. “Treatment and feeding for affected patients are ongoing under the governor’s directive. We are awaiting scientific confirmation of the cause before implementing long-term preventive measures,” he stated.
While concerns have been raised about potential links to illegal mining activities, Wurno stressed that regulatory actions would only be taken based on conclusive evidence.
“We must base our response on scientific findings rather than speculation,” he asserted.
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