Lagos State Cholera Outbreak Causes 5 Deaths, 60 Hospitalizations

Five people have died and 60 hospitalized due to a cholera outbreak in Lagos State, which has led to the government issuing a warning to the residents to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.

The government warning came on Tuesday after a rise in severe gastroenteritis cases in the last two days.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health Professor Akin Abayomi said Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe Local Government areas have witnessed severe gastroenteritis cases.

"We have activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response. The Ministry of Health Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency have been alerted to investigate a possible water contamination source in the Lekki Victoria Island axis," he said, Punch reported.

He added, "We suspect a possible cholera outbreak; however, samples have been taken for confirmation. As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states."

The commissioner further said that the recent rains have resulted in severe vomiting and watery stools cases, noting that the urban slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation were at high risk.

Abayomi pointed out that cholera can be spread through direct transmission, such as eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and lack of handwashing can also be a reason for getting infected.

"Symptoms of cholera include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and sometimes collapse," he added. "To prevent cholera, citizens are urged to ensure safe drinking water by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water, and avoiding ice products made from untreated water."

He suggested citizens should maintain proper sanitation by using toilets, safely disposing of feces and avoiding open defecation is crucial.

Abayomi urged people to practice good hygiene, such as regularly washing hands with soap and clean water, especially before eating or preparing meals. Even after using the toilet, it is advisable to wash hands.

Abayomi asked citizens to report suspected cases via emergency hotlines: 08023169485, 08137412348 or by using helplines 767 or 112, adding that everyone should adopt preventive measures and report any suspected cases promptly to safeguard our communities.