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AKWA IBOM STATE Public Health Emergency Operations Centre - Pheoc, Dakkada Secretariat, Uyo (2025)

04/07/2025

CHOLERA PREVENTION AND CONTROL SENSITIZATION IN FLOODED AREAS.

The Epidemiology Unit, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) from Uyo and Itu Local Government Areas, conducted a sensitization and awareness campaign on cholera prevention and control in flooded areas of the state.

The team visited several communities, including IMOH Street, off Urua Ekpa, West Itam 3, and Akpakpan Street in West Itam 1, all in Itu LGA, as well as Ukana Offot Street in Uyo LGA. The mission aimed to assess the health implications of the flood on residents and provide education on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices.

The state team was led by Mr. Dominic Essien, Health Promotion Officer, on behalf of the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Eneh, while the WHO team was led by Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, WHO Surveillance Officer in the state.

Key findings revealed that the affected communities lacked access to portable drinking water, relying solely on borehole water. In response, the team emphasized the importance of boiling water before consumption as an interim measure. Residents were also educated on personal and environmental hygiene practices, including desilting gutters to prevent stagnation of water.

The sensitization campaign focused on cholera prevention and control, as well as other epidemic-prone diseases. Residents were encouraged to adopt healthy practices to mitigate the risk of waterborne diseases.

KEY INTERVENTIONS:

1. WASH EDUCATION: Residents were educated on proper WASH practices to prevent cholera and other waterborne diseases.
2. WATER TREATMENT: Residents were advised to boil water before consumption to ensure safety.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE: Emphasis was placed on desilting gutters and maintaining environmental hygiene.
4. DISEASE PREVENTION: Residents were sensitized on cholera prevention and control measures.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. PROVISION OF PORTABLE WATER: Efforts should be made to provide access to portable drinking water in affected communities.
2. SUSTAINED WASH EDUCATION: Ongoing education and awareness campaigns should be conducted to reinforce healthy practices.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTIONS: Regular desilting of gutters and other environmental health interventions should be implemented to prevent water stagnation.
4. HEALTH FACILITY PREPAREDNESS: Health facilities covering the affected communities should be placed on alert and equipped with cholera treatment supplies, including Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), antibiotics, and other essential medications, as part of the cholera readiness and preparedness plan.

CONCLUSION:

The sensitization campaign highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in preventing and controlling cholera outbreaks in flood-affected areas. By implementing the recommended interventions and ensuring health facility preparedness, the risk of cholera and other waterborne diseases can be significantly reduced, protecting the health and well-being of residents in these communities. The Epidemiology Unit, WHO, and DSNOs remain committed to working together to address the health needs of affected populations and promote a healthier environment.

24/06/2025

ENHANCING DISEASE SURVEILLANCE: FRACS AND CACS INITIATIVE.

With the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), Akwa Ibom State field office, the Epidemiology Unit is currently conducting a comprehensive Facility-based six months Retrospective Active Case Search (FRACS) and Community-based Active Case Search (CACS) for Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) and other priority diseases across the state. This initiative focuses on silent wards, aiming to identify and report cases that may have gone unnoticed, thereby strengthening disease surveillance and public health response.

OBJECTIVES

1. ENHANCE SURVEILLANCE: To improve the detection and reporting of AFP and other priority diseases in the state.
2. IDENTIFY MISSED CASES: To identify cases that may have been missed through routine surveillance, particularly in silent wards.
3. STRENGTHEN PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE: To inform evidence-based decision-making and response strategies, ultimately improving public health outcomes.

METHODOLOGY:

1. FRACS: A retrospective review of medical records and other relevant registers from healthcare facilities over the past six months to identify potential cases of AFP and other priority diseases.
2. CACS: Community-based search for cases of AFP and other priority diseases, involving active engagement with community members, healthcare workers, and other stakeholders.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES:

1. IMPROVED DISEASE DETECTION: Enhanced surveillance and case detection, particularly in silent wards.
2. STRENGTHENED PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE: Informing evidence-based decision-making and response strategies.
3. BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES: Ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes in the state.

This initiative is crucial in enhancing disease surveillance and response in the state, and we are committed to ensuring its success.

23/06/2025

🌟 A NEW ERA FOR HEALTHCARE IN AKWA IBOM STATE! 🌟

I’m thrilled to announce that, with the approval of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno Ph.D, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, I have inaugurated TWO critical task forces to revolutionize our health sector as the Honourable Commissioner for Health:

1️⃣ Akwa Ibom State Task Force on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Food Products.

2️⃣ Task Force on Monitoring of Private Health Facilities and Anti-Quackery in the Health Sector.

These initiatives, absent since 2011 and 2013 respectively, mark a bold step toward safeguarding lives.

For too long, our people have faced preventable deaths and suffering due to counterfeit drugs, unwholesome food products, and unethical practices by unqualified practitioners. These dangers erode trust and threaten lives.

The Akwa Ibom State Government, through the Ministry of Health, is resolute in stamping out these menaces and holding health professionals accountable.

✅ Some Benefits of These Task Forces:

1. Safer Healthcare: Eliminating fake drugs and quackery ensures quality treatment for all.
2. Public Trust: Restoring confidence in our health system.
3. Economic Growth: A healthier population drives productivity and development.
4. Accountability: Strict monitoring ensures ethical standards in private and public facilities.
5. Lives Saved: Reducing preventable deaths through proactive regulation.We are committed to a healthier, stronger Akwa Ibom!

Join us in supporting this transformative journey to protect our people and build a world-class health system. 💙🏥

19/06/2025

INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE SURVEILLANCE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP (TWG)

The Surveillance Technical Working Group (TWG) held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the conference hall of the Akwa Ibom State Field Office of the World Health Organization (WHO). The meeting was chaired by the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Eneh and attended by key stakeholders, including:

- The State Coordinator of WHO, Dr Oluwabukola Alawale - Co Chair
- Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, WHO Surveillance Focal Person
- Mrs. Aniefiok Akpan, State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (SDSNO)
- Victoria Akpan, State Surveillance Officer (SSO) of the NCDC
- The Case Management Focal Person, Dr Onukak Asukwo
- A representative of the Director of Disease Control and Immunization
- A representative of the Nigeria Police Medical Services, CSP Kufre
- A representative of the Director of Environmental Health
- Representatives from the Veterinary Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Iniobong Joshua and Dr Aniefiok Udom
- A representative from the Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
- The M&E officer of the Epidemiology Unit, Mrs Dorathy Godwin-Norbert Okon
- The Environmental Surveillance State Officer, Mr Dominic Essien
- As well as other State Surveillance Officials and partners.

KEY DISCUSSIONS

The meeting deliberated on two key items:

1. TRAINING OF NEWLY APPOINTED SURVEILLANCE FOCAL PERSONS (SFPs): The WHO Surveillance Focal Person, Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, announced the creation of 24 new surveillance sites, bringing the total to 260 sites. The newly appointed SFPs will undergo training on surveillance, and surveillance tools will be provided to them. The training is scheduled to take place from July 9th to 13th, 2025, at the NLC Secretariat, Uyo.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: The State Coordinator of WHO, Dr. Oluwabukola Alawale, and the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Eneh, emphasized the need for a Multi-Hazard Preparedness Plan for the state. A residential training will be organized to build capacity for the development of the plan.

3. ADDITIONAL DISCUSSIONS

- INTRODUCTION OF Mpox and Measles- Rubella VACCINES: The possibility of introducing Mpox and Measles-Rubella vaccines in the state was explored.

- YELLOW FEVER VACCINE: Further action on the yellow fever vaccine will depend on the results of the presumptive case investigation, which will determine the next steps to be taken.

ACTION POINTS

The following action points were agreed upon during the meeting:

1. DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: Develop a comprehensive plan to enhance emergency response and management.

2. TRAINING ON MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: Conduct a 3-5 day training for the State Technical Working Group (TWG) to build capacity for the development of the plan.

3. SURVEILLANCE TRAINING FOR NEW SFPs: Organize a surveillance training for new SFPs from July 9th to 11th, 2025.

4. SURVEILLANCE TECHNICAL PRESENTATION BY VETERINARY DEPARTMENT: Schedule a presentation during the second quarter of the Surveillance Review Meeting.

5. PROVISION OF SURVEILLANCE TOOLS: Provide tools to new SFPs during their training.

6. INTRODUCTION OF MEASLES-RUBELLA VACCINE: Work towards the introduction of the vaccine as soon as possible

7. DEVELOPMENT OF MICRO PLAN: Develop a micro-plan for new surveillance focal sites.

8. NEXT MEETING SCHEDULE: The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 31, 2025. Further information will be provided on this.

The meeting was attended by 14 surveillance officials from various agencies, including the State Ministry of Health, AKSPHCDA, Veterinary Unit, Environmental Health, WASH, NCDC, and Nigeria Police Medical Services.

19/06/2025

TRAINING ON FACILITY RETROSPECTIVE ACTIVE CASE SEARCH (FRACS) AND COMMUNITY ACTIVE CASE SEARCH (CACS)

The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Epidemiology Unit of the State Ministry of Health, conducted a one-day training on Facility Retrospective Active Case Search (FRACS) and Community Active Case Search (CACS) for Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) and other priority diseases. The training aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills to conduct community-based Active Case Search and 6-months retrospective Facility-based Active Case Search, with a special focus on silent wards.

PARTICIPANTS

The training brought together key stakeholders, including:

- State Epidemiology Unit led by the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Eneh
- Local Government Area Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (LGA DSNOs)
- Partners and other relevant stakeholders

OBJECTIVE

Held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the WHO conference hall, the training was designed to enhance the capacity of the State team to detect and report cases of AFP and other priority diseases, ultimately strengthening the state's surveillance system.

IMPACT

This training is a crucial step towards improving disease surveillance and response, particularly in silent wards, and underscores the WHO's commitment to supporting disease surveillance and public health initiatives in the state.

18/06/2025

INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE SURVEILLANCE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP (TWG)

The Surveillance Technical Working Group (TWG) held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the conference hall of the Akwa Ibom State Field Office of the World Health Organization (WHO). The meeting was chaired by the State Epidemiologist, Dr Nchiek Eneh and attended by key stakeholders, including:

- State Coordinator of WHO, Dr Oluwabukola Alawale - Co-chair
- Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, WHO Surveillance Focal Person
- Mrs. Aniefiok Akpan, State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (SDSNO)
- Victoria Akpan, State Surveillance Officer (SSO) of the NCDC
- The Case Management Focal Person, Dr Onukak Asukwo
- A representative of the Director of Disease Control and Immunization
- A representative of the Nigeria Police Medical Services, CSP Kufre
- A representative of the Director of Environmental Health
- Representatives from the Veterinary Department of the Ministry of Agriculture
- A representative from the Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
- As well as other State Surveillance Officials and partners.

KEY DISCUSSIONS

The meeting deliberated on two key items:

1. TRAINING OF NEWLY APPOINTED SURVEILLANCE FOCAL PERSONS (SFPs): The WHO Surveillance Focal Person, Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, announced the creation of 24 new surveillance sites, bringing the total to 260 sites. The newly appointed SFPs will undergo training on surveillance, and surveillance tools will be provided to them. The training is scheduled to take place from July 9th to 13th, 2025, at the NLC Secretariat, Uyo.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: The State Coordinator of WHO, Dr. Oluwabukola Alawale, and the State Epidemiologist, Dr. Nchiek Eneh, emphasized the need for a Multi-Hazard Preparedness Plan for the state. A residential training will be organized to build capacity for the development of the plan.

ACTION POINTS

The following action points were agreed upon during the meeting:

1. DEVELOPMENT OF MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: Develop a comprehensive plan to enhance emergency response and management.

2. TRAINING ON MULTI-HAZARD PREPAREDNESS PLAN: Conduct a 3-5 day training for the State Technical Working Group (TWG) to build capacity for the development of the plan.

3. SURVEILLANCE TRAINING FOR NEW SFPs: Organize a surveillance training for new SFPs from July 9th to 11th, 2025.

4. SURVEILLANCE TECHNICAL PRESENTATION BY VETERINARY DEPARTMENT: Schedule a presentation during the second quarter of the Surveillance Review Meeting.

5. PROVISION OF SURVEILLANCE TOOLS: Provide tools to new SFPs during their training.

6. INTRODUCTION OF MEASLES-RUBELLA VACCINE: Work towards the introduction of the vaccine as soon as possible

7. DEVELOPMENT OF MICRO PLAN: Develop a micro-plan for new surveillance focal sites.

8. NEXT MEETING SCHEDULE: The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 31, 2025. Further information will be provided on this..

The meeting was attended by 14 surveillance officials from various agencies, including the State Ministry of Health, AKSPHCDA, Veterinary Unit, Environmental Health, WASH, NCDC, and Nigeria Police Medical Services.

17/06/2025

Monthly Surveillance Review Meeting

A monthly surveillance review meeting is currently underway at the WHO conference hall, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, Uyo, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The meeting brings together key stakeholders, including:

- State Team: Led by State Epidemiologist Dr. Nchiek Eneh
- WHO Team: Led by Dr. Oluwabukola Alawale
- NCDC Team: Led by Victoria Akpan
- LGA DSNOs: Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers from Local Government Areas

Key Highlights

The high point of today's meeting is the distribution of essential tools and guidelines, including:

- APP Tools: Supporting enhanced surveillance and response efforts
- IDSR Tools: Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response tools for improved disease detection and reporting
- Guideline for Polio Virus Surveillance in Nigeria: Providing critical guidance for polio surveillance and eradication efforts

This meeting aims to strengthen disease surveillance, enhance collaboration, and improve response to public health threats in the state.

14/06/2025

SOUTH-SOUTH AND SOUTH-EAST Cholera Readiness Capacity BUILDING WORKSHOP

The World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and key partners, conducted a Cholera Readiness Capacity Building workshop for the South-South and South-East zones of Nigeria. The workshop aimed to enhance preparedness and response to cholera outbreaks in high-risk areas.

BACKGROUND

Cholera remains a significant public health concern globally, with 33 countries reporting outbreaks in 2024. Nigeria has been severely affected, with 24,721 cases and 726 deaths reported in 2024, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 2.9%. In response, Nigeria updated its Priority Multisectoral Interventions (PAMIs) in alignment with the Global Task Force for Cholera Control (GTFCC) Roadmap and regional frameworks.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

The workshop objectives were to:

1. Build capacity on response and preparedness to cholera outbreaks
2. Raise awareness on GTFCC tools, including the Cholera App, for early detection and response
3. Familiarize participants with cholera kit calculation and management
4. Enhance understanding of key pillars for cholera preparedness and response, including coordination, surveillance, laboratory, case management, WASH, risk communication, and community engagement

WORKSHOP ACTIVITIES

The workshop featured presentations and practical sessions on:

- Case management and logistics supply
- WASH as a critical component of cholera prevention and control
- Setting up Oral Rehydration Points (ORPs) and Cholera Treatment Centres (CTCs)
- Determination of water pH, residual chlorine, culture, and water turbidity
- Use of the GTFCC App

PARTICIPANTS

Representatives from Akwa Ibom State attended the workshop as follows:

- Dr. Nchiek Eneh, State Epidemiologist
- Dr. Keyukem Ekpotu, Case Management
- Mr. Dominic Essien, Logistics Specialist
- Mr. Ini Esak, WASH Focal Person

The workshop was a valuable opportunity for participants to enhance their knowledge and skills in cholera preparedness and response, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes in Nigeria.

11/06/2025

Know the difference. Protect your child with the right vaccines.

08/06/2025

: Move for a Healthier YOU! 🏃🏾‍♀️✨

It’s not just about eating right, regular physical activity plays a major role in your total well-being.
Here are some simple ways to stay active and improve your health:

📌 Cardiovascular Exercises
🚶‍♀️ Brisk walking
🏃‍♀️ Jogging or running
🏊 Swimming
🚴 Cycling

📌 Strength Training
🏋️‍♀️ Weight lifting
🤸🏾‍♀️Body weight exercises (e.g. pushups, squats)

📌 Flexibility & Balance
🧘🏾‍♀️ Yoga
🧘‍♂️ Pilates

Start small. Be consistent. Your body and mind will thank you.

| | | |

05/06/2025

VISIT OF NCDC DELEGATES TO EOC AND INFLUENZA SENTINEL SITE

On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) delegates visited the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in Akwa Ibom State. The purpose was to discuss the strengths and challenges of the Influenza Sentinel Site at the General Hospital in Ikot Ekpene with the state team, led by Dr. Nchiek Eneh, State Epidemiologist. Dr. Etop Antia, Director of Public Health, welcomed the NCDC team at the EOC.

The delegation then proceeded to the General Hospital in Ikot Ekpene for supportive supervision, inspection, and a meeting with influenza focal persons. Key stakeholders present included:

- Dr. Nchiek Eneh, State Epidemiologist
- Mrs. Dorathy Godwin-N Okon, State Sentinel Focal Person
- Dr. Ayakeme Ekpoudom, WHO Surveillance Officer

The discussions aimed to enhance the site's functionality and effectiveness.

COLLABORATION DISCUSSION WITH INFECTIOUS DISEASE HOSPITAL (IDH), IKOT EKPENE, AKWA IBOM STATE

In a separate development, Dr. Nchiek Eneh, State Epidemiologist, led a delegation to the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) with a WHO team. The purpose was to explore potential collaboration opportunities, particularly in accommodating patients with infectious diseases like MPOX.

These visits demonstrate the commitment of the Akwa Ibom State government and its partners to strengthening public health systems and responding to emerging health challenges.

29/05/2025

MPOX SOCIAL AND BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE (SBC) STUDY TRAINING: DAY 2 REPORT

The second day of the Mpox Social and Behavioural Change (SBC) Study Training commenced with a comprehensive recap of Day 1 activities. Key highlights of the day included:

1. RESEARCH ETHICS: An in-depth discussion on the importance of ethics in research, emphasizing compliance with legal requirements and professional standards to protect both participants and researchers.
2. INFORMED CONSENT: Participants were informed of the necessity of obtaining informed consent from participants before administering questionnaires, with specific guidelines for minors (15-17 years old) requiring parental or guardian consent.
3. REDCap TRAINING: Hands-on training was conducted using REDCap, a data collection tool, to enhance participants' skills in data collection.

The day's training culminated in a demonstration of how to conduct a Key Informant Interview (KII) in the community, providing participants with practical insights into effective community engagement.

This training is crucial in equipping participants with the necessary skills to contribute to the study's objectives and inform the development of effective SBC strategies to control the spread of Mpox.

AKWA IBOM STATE Public Health Emergency Operations Centre - Pheoc

04/07/2025

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19/06/2025

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