The Lagos State government, in a statement released by the Director of Public Affairs in the state Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo on Saturday, said it has confirmed 17 cholera cases out of 350 suspected cases in 29 wards in the state.
15 fatalities were also confirmed from the cholera outbreak.
Ogunbamwo, however, stated that the state government has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, Lagos.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, the statement added, while speaking on steps taken to control the outbreak in Lagos State disclosed the PHEOC was convened to address the increasing number of severe gastroenteritis cases across multiple LGAs in the state.
The Commissioner noted that, “The laboratory investigation and test results have so far confirmed Cholera sub-type O-1. This subtype is associated with more severe disease. The pattern of new cases per day varies across LGAs, according to our ongoing surveillance and monitoring updates.
“Although this is an increase from the numbers published 3 days ago, cases are now dramatically subsiding in previously affected LGAs due to our interventions and surveillance efforts, however, we are recording some new cases in previously unaffected LGAs, signalling the need for residents to adhere strictly to precautionary, personal, and environmental hygiene measure.
“The Directorate of Environmental Health of the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency of the Ministry of Environment, have collected samples of water sources, food and beverage samples in all the affected LGAs, while inspections of facilities are ongoing.
“We are prepositioning cholera kits in health facilities across the State. Our efforts to control the outbreak also include the distribution of Oral Rehydration Solutions, and public health education campaigns.”
Abayomi also revealed that a Lagos State Government Ministry of Health high-level team has had a meeting with the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr Jide Idris, and his team as well as partners from the World Health Organisation, in the bid to ensure that all interventions are optimised.
While urging residents in the state to support the state government’s efforts at combating the outbreak, the Commissioner said, “During this Ileya festive season, residents are advised to drink safe water, cook food thoroughly, maintain personal hygiene, wash hands regularly, use sanitiser, and avoid overcrowded places.
“Reporting symptoms like watery diarrhoea or vomiting immediately is also crucial, to save lives and prevent transmission to other members of the community.
“Treatment for suspected cholera is provided free of charge at all government facilities as part of government standard public health response.”
He added, “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates. Residents are advised to stay informed and adhere to public health advisories to ensure their safety and well-being during this period.”
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