Five people have died and 60 others have been injured due to a cholera outbreak in Lagos State, Nigeria. The state’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed the outbreak and urged residents to take immediate action to prevent further spread.
The affected areas include Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe Local Government Areas, where cases of severe gastroenteritis have been reported. The Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency are investigating a possible water contamination source in the Lekki Victoria Island axis.
Cholera is a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhea and can be life-threatening, especially in areas with poor water treatment and sanitation. To prevent cholera, citizens are advised to:
– Ensure safe drinking water by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water
– Avoid ice products made from untreated water
– Maintain proper sanitation by using toilets and safely disposing of feces
– Avoid open defecation
– Practice good hygiene by washing hands with soap and clean water regularly
– Follow food safety guidelines
The Lagos State Government has activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response to contain the outbreak. Residents are advised to report any suspected cases promptly to safeguard their communities.
The government has also assured citizens that it is committed to ensuring their health and well-being, and will keep them informed about any developments in the situation.
