Fear has gripped the Mbutu community in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State following the outbreak of a mysterious illness that has claimed the lives of six young children. In response, local authorities have ordered the closure of all public and private schools in the area for seven days to curb the spread of the disease.

 

The affected community, which comprises four autonomous towns—Mbutu Ancient Kingdom, Mbutu Nweorie, Mbutu Ukwu, and Nwenkwo—is now on high alert as the illness continues to spread.

 

Chairman of Aboh Mbaise LGA, Hon. Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, announced the school closure, explaining that it was a precautionary measure to safeguard the lives of schoolchildren and prevent further infections. He confirmed that six children, aged between one and six years, had died within a week.

 

In a statement, Alaribe revealed that health experts from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Department of Disease Prevention and Control in the Imo State Ministry of Health, and local health personnel have been deployed to investigate the outbreak and identify its cause.

 

He also noted that efforts were ongoing to partner with the state government and other relevant agencies to contain the situation and protect public health.

 

“In light of this outbreak, parents who have not yet vaccinated their children are strongly urged to do so. Vaccinations are critical in preventing the spread of diseases and safeguarding the health of our children,” the statement emphasized.

 

The council chairman appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate fully with health authorities as they work tirelessly to bring the outbreak under control.