Cholera Outbreak: Lagos Records 21 Deaths, 401 Cases Reported
Lagos State has been gripped by a cholera outbreak, resulting in 21 deaths and 401 reported cases across various local government areas (LGAs) as of the latest update by health officials.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, disclosed that the outbreak has spread to multiple Local Government Areas including Lagos Island, Kosofe, Ikorodu, and Eti Osa.
The increase in cases was attributed to large gatherings during the recent Ileya festivities.
“The rise in cases was anticipated following the Ileya festivities, during which large gatherings occurred,” Ogunyemi stated during a press briefing in Lagos.
She emphasized that the state government, through the Ministry of Health and other agencies, is actively engaged in surveillance, intervention, and monitoring efforts to contain the outbreak.
Measures include rigorous surveillance, sample collection from water sources, food, and beverages for contamination testing, as well as community sanitation initiatives.
“Residents must remain vigilant, practice good hand hygiene, and participate in community sanitation activities to stop the spread of cholera,” Ogunyemi urged.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, had earlier confirmed the initial suspected cases across 29 wards in multiple LGAs.
Laboratory tests identified Cholera sub type O-1, associated with severe disease. The state government responded by activating its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at Mainland Hospital, Yaba.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) reported that five cholera patients admitted last week have been discharged, indicating a reduction in new cases at the facility.
In a related development, the Lagos Water Corporation (LWC) issued a red alert, cautioning residents against consuming untreated water and initiating comprehensive water quality monitoring across the state.
The LWC urged residents to bring water samples for testing at their headquarters in Ijora.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), directed Private Sector Participants (PSP) operators to ensure 24-hour waste evacuation to prevent further spread of the disease.
He stressed the importance of proper waste management and personal hygiene practices in curbing the outbreak.
Lagos, Nigeria’s densely populated commercial capital, has historically grappled with cholera outbreaks due to factors such as migration, overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and unsafe water sources.
The city’s health authorities continue to mobilize resources and implement preventive measures to mitigate the impact of the current outbreak.
Efforts are ongoing to educate communities on cholera prevention, enhance sanitation practices, and ensure timely medical treatment for affected individuals across affected areas.
