scene of the incident
No fewer than 60 persons have now been confirmed injured following the gas explosion that rocked Calabar, Cross River State, on Saturday, marking a sharp increase from the initial figures reported.
The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, disclosed the updated figure on Sunday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where the victims are currently receiving treatment.
Ayuk explained that the visit was aimed at evaluating the condition of those affected and ensuring that adequate medical attention is being provided. According to him, the victims are being managed at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department.
He further revealed that patients with less severe burn injuries would be transferred to the General Hospital, Calabar, in order to decongest UCTH and allow for more effective care of critically injured victims.
The commissioner was accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Mr. Ekpeyong Akiba.
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They were received by the Chief Medical Director of UCTH, Prof. Ikpeme Ikpeme, who briefed them on the treatment and management of the patients.
The development follows an earlier visit by the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who had initially put the number of victims at 30.
The governor also assured that the state government would shoulder the medical expenses of those affected.
The explosion, which occurred along Edibe Edibe in Calabar South, was reportedly caused by a gas leak at a nearby plant.
The incident impacted several residential buildings in the area, leaving many injured and causing widespread panic among residents.
State health authorities say efforts are ongoing to ensure that all victims receive prompt and adequate care as part of a coordinated emergency response.
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