Cholera alert
Monday, January 09, 2012
Editorial
Health authorities have sounded the alarm bell following reports of cholera outbreak in neighbouring Senegal. Considering our proximity to Senegal and the fact that at this time many Gambians do go on pilgrimage to Touba, and also attend other religious gatherings (Gamo) in Senegal, we join the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to caution people to observe safety precautions and avoid engaging in acts that would easily help the spread of the disease.
Avoiding shaking hands, wEditorialashing hands thoroughly with soap and keeping our environment tidy are crucial in that respect. We also hope that the Ministry of Health would intensify the campaign on the mass media so that people can know their dos and donts to prevent a cholera outbreak in the country.
Those who are planning to travel to Senegal should therefore be aware that the cholera bacteria spreads very easily even through handshake. Abstinence from such and other engagements should at best be avoided, or minimised.
Those who are unfortunate to contract the disease should also endeavour to report to the health centres on time. Cholera is a curable disease and the Health Ministry has also been efficient in ensuring the timely treatment and halting the spread of such diseases. What they need is the cooperation of the general public in that respect.
More...
Monday, January 09, 2012
Editorial
Health authorities have sounded the alarm bell following reports of cholera outbreak in neighbouring Senegal. Considering our proximity to Senegal and the fact that at this time many Gambians do go on pilgrimage to Touba, and also attend other religious gatherings (Gamo) in Senegal, we join the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to caution people to observe safety precautions and avoid engaging in acts that would easily help the spread of the disease.
Avoiding shaking hands, wEditorialashing hands thoroughly with soap and keeping our environment tidy are crucial in that respect. We also hope that the Ministry of Health would intensify the campaign on the mass media so that people can know their dos and donts to prevent a cholera outbreak in the country.
Those who are planning to travel to Senegal should therefore be aware that the cholera bacteria spreads very easily even through handshake. Abstinence from such and other engagements should at best be avoided, or minimised.
Those who are unfortunate to contract the disease should also endeavour to report to the health centres on time. Cholera is a curable disease and the Health Ministry has also been efficient in ensuring the timely treatment and halting the spread of such diseases. What they need is the cooperation of the general public in that respect.
More...