The cholera outbreak in Lagos continues to escalate, with the death toll now reaching 21 and suspected cases rising to 401. Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, provided these updates following a meeting with the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).
Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa Local Government Areas are the hardest hit by the outbreak. Ogunyemi noted that the increase in cases was expected due to large gatherings during the Ileya festivities. However, she mentioned that the number of suspected cases is starting to decline across various LGAs due to state government interventions and heightened surveillance efforts.
The state government, through the Ministry of Health and other related agencies, continues to maintain rigorous surveillance and monitoring. They have implemented several programs to curb the spread of cholera. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), is collecting samples of water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination.
“We have intensified our surveillance activities in communities, especially in the affected local government areas,” Ogunyemi stated. “We are also working with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure all precautions are taken in our schools to protect children and scholars as they return. Residents must remain vigilant, practice good hand hygiene, and participate in community sanitation activities to stop the spread of cholera.”
She advised residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever. Ogunyemi emphasized that treatment for cholera is provided free of charge at all public health facilities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to ensuring that Lagos residents receive quality and affordable healthcare. Ogunyemi extended the state’s gratitude to local, national, and international partners, including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, Red Cross, and others, for their support in combating the outbreak.
“Appreciation is also extended to the dedicated team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, environmental health officers, Water Corporation officers, surveillance officers, heads of agencies, members of PHEOC, and volunteers who are working around the clock to combat the disease and keep Lagos safe,” Ogunyemi said.
With ongoing efforts and community cooperation, health officials aim to control the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.
Source: The Guardian
