By Opeyemi Muhammed
Five persons have died from a cholera outbreak in Lagos, prompting the state government to call for heightened vigilance and adoption of precautionary measures.
The State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, in a statement on Wednesday, warned that hospitals had recorded reports of severe gastroenteritis cases in the last two days.
Abayomi listed communities in Kosofe, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Eti-Osa LGAs where medics have recorded cases of severe gastroenteritis.
The commissioner also hinted that no fewer than 60 patients have been diagnosed with extreme dehydration.
“We have activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response.
“The ministry has alerted its Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) to investigate a possible water contamination source in the Lekki, Victoria Island axis.
“We suspect a possible cholera outbreak. However, samples have been taken for confirmation,” Ababyomi said.
He explained that cholera is a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhoea and can be life-threatening.
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The commissioner explained following recent rainfall, Lagos had witnessed a notable increase in cases of severe vomiting and watery stools.
He added that urban slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation are particularly at risk.
“It posed a significant health burden in areas with poor water treatment and sanitation and could impact the state.
“Cholera spreads through direct transmission by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. It also spreads via indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and lack of handwashing.”
Abayomi advised residents to rely on the State Ministry of Health, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and accredited local health facilities for guidance, advice and updates on prevention, treatment and management.
Abayomi restated the state’s commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens.
The commissioner advised residents to report suspected cases through the official emergency hotlines.
These are 08023169485, 08137412348, or by using helplines 767 or 112 to safeguard communities.
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