Lagos State is currently facing a severe outbreak of cholera, resulting in the loss of five lives and the hospitalization of 60 individuals in various local government areas such as Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe. The State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, shared this concerning information in response to the state’s surveillance reports.
Prof. Abayomi stressed the urgent need for increased vigilance and precautionary measures to prevent a potential cholera outbreak. He highlighted that the fatalities primarily occurred due to delayed medical attention resulting in extreme dehydration.
“We have implemented a comprehensive surveillance and response plan across the entire state. The Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) have been notified to investigate possible water contamination in the Lekki-Victoria Island area. While we suspect a potential cholera outbreak, we are currently conducting tests on samples for confirmation. As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria has reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states,” he stated.
The Commissioner emphasized that recent rainfall has worsened cases of severe vomiting and watery stools, particularly affecting urban slums and densely populated areas with inadequate sanitation facilities.
Cholera, a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhea, poses a significant threat in regions with insufficient water treatment and poor sanitation. Prof. Abayomi explained that cholera spreads through contaminated food or water and is exacerbated by poor hygiene practices. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and in severe cases, collapse.
To effectively treat cholera, rehydration is crucial. Mild to moderate cases can be managed by using Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), while severely dehydrated patients require Intravenous Fluids. It is important that these treatments are administered in medical facilities under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
In order to prevent cholera, citizens are advised to take certain precautions. These include ensuring the safety of drinking water by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water. It is also important to avoid consuming ice products made from untreated water. Maintaining proper sanitation practices, such as using toilets, safely disposing of feces, and avoiding open defecation, is essential. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and clean water, especially before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet, is highly recommended. Following food safety guidelines is also important in preventing cholera.
Prof. Abayomi emphasized the need for residents to rely on the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and accredited local health facilities for guidance, advice, and updates on prevention, treatment, and management of cholera. Suspected cases can be reported through emergency hotlines: 08023169485, 08137412348, or by using helplines 767 or 112.
Highlighting the significance of maintaining high hygiene standards and taking proactive measures, Prof. Abayomi assured the public that continuous updates will be provided and the government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is committed to the health and well-being of its citizens.
“We urge everyone to adopt these preventive measures and promptly report any suspected cases to safeguard our communities,” he concluded.
