Lagos, Nigeria – The recent cholera outbreak in Lagos State has resulted in the deaths of 21 people, with 401 suspected cases reported to the state Ministry of Health.
The outbreak, which has led to an increasing number of severe gastroenteritis cases across multiple local government areas (LGAs), is being rigorously monitored and addressed by state health authorities.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, provided an update on the situation after a meeting with members of the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).
She disclosed that the total number of cholera cases has surged to 401, with Lagos Island, Kosofe, Ikorodu, and Eti Osa recording the highest numbers.
“The rise in cases was anticipated following the Ileya festivities, during which large gatherings occurred,” Ogunyemi stated. Despite the increase, she noted that suspected cases were beginning to subside across LGAs, particularly in the previously affected areas, due to the state government’s interventions and surveillance efforts.
To curb the spread of the disease, the Lagos State government, through the Ministry of Health and other sister agencies, has been maintaining rigorous surveillance and monitoring of the situation.
The government has been implementing planned programs and activities aimed at controlling the outbreak. “The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the state Ministry of Environment and its agency, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples of water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination,” Ogunyemi explained.
She emphasized the importance of these measures in pinpointing and eliminating the contamination sources.
In addition to these efforts, the state government has intensified its surveillance activities in communities, particularly in the affected local government areas. This proactive approach aims to address the outbreak head-on and prevent further spread.
Educational institutions are also part of the state’s comprehensive response. Ogunyemi mentioned that the government is working closely with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as well as the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken in schools to protect children and scholars as they return.
“The health and safety of our residents, especially our children, is of utmost priority. We are ensuring that schools adhere to strict hygiene practices and sanitation measures to mitigate the risk of cholera spread,” Ogunyemi added.
Residents of Lagos State have been urged to remain vigilant and practice good hand hygiene. Ogunyemi stressed the importance of community participation in sanitation activities to halt the spread of cholera.
“It is crucial for residents to take personal and communal responsibility in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene,” she said. As the state government continues its efforts to manage the outbreak, Lagosians are advised to be cautious with their water sources and ensure that food and beverages are sourced from reliable and hygienic vendors.
Ogunyemi assured that the government remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue to deploy resources and expertise to control the cholera outbreak effectively.
The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility promptly.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
