FIC Report (Sokoto State) – The Sokoto State Government has taken proactive measures to address the rising cases of heavy metal poisoning in some Local Government Areas of the State, (heavy metal poisoning occurs when metals like lead or mercury accumulate in the body, often from contaminated water,oil or food sources. The symptoms can include abdominal pain, vomiting and neurological issues, with children being particularly vulnerable), the disease is not contagious.
The Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar, made the disclosure at a stakeholders meeting, which was convened to discuss the outbreak and develop an effective management approach.
Dr. Abubakar, stated that currently, 35 patients from Tureta Local Government Area are receiving treatment at the State Government Specialist Hospital, Sokoto. He assured that investigations are ongoing by the State Government in collaboration with the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention ( NCDC).
Similar cases have been reported in Isa Local Government Area, where patients are receiving free treatment at the Isa General Hospital. The Commissioner has instructed that all suspected cases from other Local Government Areas should be referred to General Hospitals for proper management.
The State Government has implemented additional measures including the provision of palliative care and nutritional supplements to support the affected persons.
Signed
Ramatu Sani (Mrs),
AD(Information and Public Relations),
FIC Sokoto.
