Strange Disease in Kogi: Death Toll Rise to 62

The Kogi State Government yesterday confirmed that about 62 people have been killed by a strange disease in Kogi West senatorial district of the State.

As at last Thursday the death toll was at 50.

Already more affected people with the strange disease were transferred to Kogi State Specialist Hospital for proper management.

Speaking with newsmen yesterday on the latest development on Friday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Health Dr. Saka Haruna said information reaching the ministry showed that unknown disease had continued to claim the lives of some children and adults for the past few weeks in Koloke, Okuna, Isanlu-Isa and adjourning Hausa-Fulani communities, all in Yaba-West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

“So far, about 62 people have been killed by this mysterious disease. When I visited the affected communities with my team, samples taken from some of the victims were sent to Federal Teaching Hospital Irua, Edo State, for definitive investigation, which turned out to be negative for Lassa Fever.

“On arrival at the community, we interacted with the locals and samples were taken from their water sources and food supply. It was discovered that the people affected showed common symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting and stooling. Few of the patients however had Hematemesis and Hematochezia.

“Those found still manifesting the disease were transferred to Kogi State Specialist Hospital for proper management where an empirical diagnosis of Food Poisoning to rule out Gastroenteritis was made. They are, however responding well to the instituted line of treatment. ”

Dr. Haruna, however, said Governor Yahaya Bello, had expressed deep concern over the incident and has directed that all the patients be treated at no cost and also charged the State Ministry of Health to conclude investigation within the shortest possible time and prevent further spread of the disease.