Cholera Outbreak in Lagos Claims 5 Lives, Hospitalizes 60.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed these figures while responding to the state’s surveillance reports. He emphasized the urgent need for increased vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to curb the spread of this potentially deadly disease.
“We have recorded five deaths, primarily among patients who presented with severe dehydration at an advanced stage,” Abayomi revealed. “The state has activated heightened surveillance and response measures. The Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) are investigating potential water contamination sources, particularly in the Lekki and Victoria Island areas. While we suspect a cholera outbreak, samples have been taken for confirmation.”
As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria has reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states. The recent rains have exacerbated the situation in Lagos, leading to a significant rise in cases of severe vomiting and watery stools. Urban slums and densely populated areas with poor sanitation are particularly vulnerable.
Cholera, a highly contagious disease causing severe diarrhea, poses a significant health threat in regions with inadequate water treatment and sanitation. “Cholera spreads through consuming contaminated food or water and can also be transmitted indirectly due to poor sanitation and inadequate hand hygiene,” Abayomi explained. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and, in severe cases, collapse.
Treatment for cholera includes rehydration with Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) for mild to moderate dehydration and Intravenous Fluids for severe cases, which should be administered in medical facilities under professional supervision.
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To prevent cholera, residents are urged to ensure their drinking water is safe by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water, and to avoid ice products made from untreated water. Proper sanitation practices, such as using toilets, safely disposing of feces, and avoiding open defecation, are crucial. Good hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and clean water, especially before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet, is essential.
The Commissioner advised citizens to follow guidance from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and accredited local health facilities for updates on prevention, treatment, and management of cholera.
Prof. Abayomi emphasized the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards and taking proactive measures to prevent further outbreaks. “We urge everyone to adopt these preventive measures and report any suspected cases promptly to safeguard our communities,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens.
