Chicken pox hits Benue IDPs camp in Agagbe

IDOMA VOICE reports that A case of chicken pox has been identified at the Agagbe Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp located in the Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

The recent discovery comes on the heels of a reported measles outbreak that affected 10 children at the same camp just last week, as highlighted by Daily Trust.

Ibaah Terna Jacob, the chairman overseeing the Agagbe IDP camp, disclosed to our correspondent on Sunday that medical professionals from a nearby private hospital had detected the instance of chickenpox. These medical practitioners were responsible for notifying government officials who conducted a visit to the camp over the weekend.

The government officials, hailing from the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), visited the camp with the primary intention of verifying the accuracy of media reports detailing the prevalent illnesses and hunger among the IDPs. “Today (weekend) SEMA was here to confirm the widespread news in IDP camp, Agagbe concerning sickness and hunger,” stated Jacob. During their visit, they interviewed Mrs. Ioryoosu Udisugh, who had given birth in the camp’s toilet, and her testimony aligned with the media reports.

In the course of their investigation, the officials consulted medical professionals at the European Economic Community (EEC) Hospital in Agagbe. These doctors not only confirmed the presence of measles but also brought to light the occurrence of chicken pox among the IDPs.

Reverend Father Bua Cletus, the Vicar in Charge of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Agagbe, also played a part in addressing the pressing health concerns at the camp. Reportedly, two individuals generously contributed N70,000 to his account to support the treatment of the afflicted individuals. This financial aid allowed for the initiation of treatment for those affected by measles and other ailments.

“We have been able to take them to St Francis Xavier Primary Health Care, Agagbe so far. If the money remains, we will still take more ill people,” remarked the camp manager, Jacob, indicating the intention to utilize the remaining funds for further medical assistance.