The Lagos State Government has reported an increase in cholera cases and fatalities, with deaths rising from 15 to 21 and infections increasing from 350 to 401. This rise was anticipated due to large gatherings during the Eid-el Kabir celebration, according to Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health.
In a statement released by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs in the state’s Ministry of Health, Dr. Ogunyemi noted that while the overall number of cases has increased, there has been a decrease in suspected cases across various local government areas (LGAs) due to the state government’s interventions and surveillance efforts. Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa are currently recording the highest numbers of infections.
The state government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples from water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination. Enhanced surveillance activities are ongoing, particularly in the most affected LGAs.
Dr. Ogunyemi emphasized the importance of residents remaining vigilant, practicing good hand hygiene, and participating in community sanitation activities to curb the spread of cholera. She advised residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever. Treatment for cholera is provided free of charge at all public health facilities.
The state government is also working with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure precautions are taken in schools to protect children and scholars. The collaborative effort involves local, national, and international partners such as UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, and the Red Cross.
Appreciation was extended to the dedicated team of healthcare workers and volunteers combating the outbreak. The Lagos State Government remains committed to providing quality and affordable healthcare to its residents.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the cholera outbreak was confirmed on June 15 by the state’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi. Laboratory tests identified the cholera strain as highly aggressive and contagious. As of June 11, Nigeria had recorded over 1,141 suspected and 65 confirmed cases of cholera, with more than 30 deaths reported across 30 states.