NAN-HG-5
Emergency
By Stanley Nwanosike
Enugu, July 4, 2017 (NAN) The Enugu State Government says it has begun preparation for emergency health response to flooding and other water-related disasters in the state.
The state’s Director of Public Health, Dr Okechukwu Ossai, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Tuesday.
Ossai noted that in spite of the fact that Enugu was not among the states predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to witness flooding this year, it would still prepare as some bordering states had been predicted among those that would be affected.
Cue in audio (Ossai)
“Of course, we have had the experience and it is a good time for us to learn.
“And we will not wait till it happens; so, we are putting things together. We are aware, the meteorologists (NiMet) are already warning.
“We are doing emergency preparedness and response; that is, strategising and test running.
“We are stimulating; what it looks like; what we should do when in case of any eventuality.’’
Cue out audio
He, however, called on residents of the state to clear the drains in their areas and desist from blocking water-ways to allow free flow of water during rainfall.
According to him, quick and free flow of water will also prevent multiplication of mosquitoes that cause malaria.
Ossai further advised parents to always keep their children and wards warm during this season and prevent any exposure to rain and windstorms.
“I advise those living in cool areas to wear thick clothings at night and dress up properly to prevent pneumonia, especially in children and the aged,’’ he said. (NAN)
KSN/DOR/YEE
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Edited by Nyisom Dore/Emmanuel Yashim