8 die after drinking well water

Written by Daily Trust Tuesday, 03 August 2010

EIGHT persons have been reported dead after drinking contaminated water from a well in Mutai village of Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Commissioner for Health Alhaji Idris Machinama who confirmed the deaths Saturday said five of them died at home while three died in the Specialist Hospital in Damaturu.

Seven others who also drank the water are now receiving treatment in the hospital and the Buni Yadi General Hospital, the commissioner said.

Our correspondent learnt that the incident occurred after a heavy rainfall which washed rubbish from streets into the only well in the village which serves as a source of water.

The commissioner said government had made alternative arrangement to provide water for the community while a borehole would be sunk there soon.

“We have also provided adequate drugs to our hospitals in Gujba and Damaturu for the treatment of victims and all suspected cases. Our surveillance committee which includes representatives of the WorldHealth Organization has intensified its monitoring efforts across the state. It was through routine surveillance that the problem in Mutai village was detected. The team has been alive to its responsibilities of monitoring possible outbreaks across the state which gives us the opportunity to act proactively and quickly,” he said.