News

Cholera Outbreak: Lagos confirms 21 deaths, 401 suspected cases

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, announced a significant rise in cholera cases in Lagos, with the total number now at 401 and the death toll at 21. This marks an increase from the previously reported 350 cases and 15 fatalities.

Surge in Cholera Cases Across Lagos

Dr. Ogunyemi revealed that the latest update shows an increase in cholera cases, particularly in Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa. She attributed the rise in cases to large gatherings during the Eld-el-Kabir celebration but noted that suspected cases are now subsiding across various local government areas (LGAs) due to effective state government interventions and surveillance efforts.

Government Interventions and Ongoing Surveillance

“The Lagos State government, through the Ministry of Health and other agencies, is maintaining rigorous surveillance and implementing measures to curb the spread of cholera,” said Ogunyemi. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples from water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination.

Collaborative Efforts to Combat Cholera

The state government is also working closely with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure schools take necessary precautions to protect students. Ogunyemi emphasized the importance of good hand hygiene and community sanitation activities to prevent the spread of cholera.

Free Treatment and Public Health Measures

Residents experiencing symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever are advised to seek medical attention immediately. Ogunyemi stressed that treatment for cholera is provided free of charge at all public health facilities.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Commitment to Healthcare

Ogunyemi affirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to providing quality and affordable healthcare to Lagos residents. She also extended gratitude to local, national, and international partners, including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, Red Cross, and others, for their support in combating the cholera outbreak.

Appreciation for Healthcare Workers and Volunteers

Ogunyemi expressed appreciation for the dedicated efforts of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, environmental health officers, Water Corporation officers, surveillance officers, heads of agencies, members of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC), and volunteers who are working tirelessly to control the disease and ensure the safety of Lagos residents.

For more information on cholera prevention and treatment, visit Lagos State Ministry of Health and follow updates from official health channels.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

X