The Cross River State government has intensified efforts to combat cholera and tuberculosis by deploying 36 motorcycles to remote areas for monitoring and surveillance. Additionally, international health partners have donated brand new Hilux vehicles to support these activities.
Commissioner of Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, confirmed the deployment of vehicles and motorcycles, stating that they have been instrumental in stemming the spread of tuberculosis and cholera in the state. The motorcycles, donated by the World Health Organization (WHO), have been distributed to primary healthcare centers to enhance mobility for field staff and their assistants.
Dr. Ayuk highlighted the state’s achievements, including the refurbishment of 196 primary healthcare centers, with plans to double that number by the end of the year. He also noted that the state has recorded zero cases of cholera during the recent national outbreak, attributing this success to robust relationships with stakeholders and health partners.
The state’s TB program has received significant support, with 36 motorcycles allocated to the 18 local government areas. Digital X-ray machines are expected to arrive soon to aid TB diagnosis in secondary health facilities. With World Bank assistance, the state aims to revitalize another 196 primary healthcare facilities, bringing the total to 392.
These efforts demonstrate the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and combating infectious diseases. The collaboration with international health partners and stakeholders has been crucial in achieving these milestones, and the state is poised to continue making progress in the healthcare sector.