An outbreak of an unknown illness has resulted in the deaths of five children in Gidinye, a community within the Jenkwe Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The children, who fell ill with stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea, died within 24 hours on August 5 and 6, 2024. They had reportedly left their homes in good health to work on a farm.
The victims’ parents are local farmers working along the Keana axis of the state.
Comrade Samuel Akala, Publicity Secretary of the Migili Youth Association (MYA), confirmed the incident and called on the government and relevant authorities to take urgent action to control the outbreak and protect lives.
“The circumstances that resulted in the sudden death of these children in Idah, Gidinye community on Tuesday, 6th August calls for forensic findings,” he said.
“I suggest the Center for Disease Control through PHCDA be invited to carry out disease surveillance in Keana and Obi communities where there are reported cases of acute diarrhoea, vomiting and death of children in the past few days.
“I do hope this sporadic outbreak of disease does not affect a wide range of population in this part of the state while the clinical investigation lingers.”
