See Numbers of People that Have dead as Lagos Faces Severe Cholera Outbreak
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
On Sunday, the Lagos State Government confirmed a severe cholera outbreak, resulting in 15 deaths within the last few days.
Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi reported that 350 suspected cases had emerged, with 17 confirmed as cholera and 15 resulting in fatalities. He highlighted that the state’s Ministry of Health had issued an initial alert and advisory, prompting the activation of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at Mainland Hospital, Yaba.
Prof. Abayomi noted that the PHEOC was established to manage the surge in severe gastroenteritis cases across multiple Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Lagos.
“Laboratory tests have identified Cholera sub-type O-1, known for causing more severe illness. Our surveillance indicates fluctuating new case numbers across different LGAs. While our interventions have reduced cases in previously affected areas, new cases are appearing in others, underscoring the need for strict hygiene practices among residents,” Abayomi stated.
He added that the Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency have been testing water, food, and beverages in the affected areas, alongside ongoing facility inspections.
The state is also distributing cholera kits to health facilities and conducting public health education campaigns. Abayomi mentioned that a high-level meeting had taken place with the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, WHO representatives, and other partners to optimize the response efforts.
As the Eid-al-Adha festival approaches, Abayomi urged residents to drink safe water, thoroughly cook food, maintain personal hygiene, wash hands regularly, use sanitizer, and avoid crowded places. Immediate reporting of symptoms such as watery diarrhea or vomiting is crucial to prevent further transmission and ensure prompt treatment, which is provided free at government facilities.
Acknowledging the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the support from national and international organizations like the NCDC, WHO, and UNICEF, Abayomi assured that the government is intensifying efforts to control the outbreak. He emphasized that regular updates would be provided and urged residents to adhere to public health advisories to safeguard their health during this period.
