The cholera outbreak in Lagos, particularly affecting Kirikiri prison, has prompted a swift response from the Lagos State government and international health organizations like the World Health Organisation (WHO). State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, outlined the measures taken, including supplying medical supplies and intravenous fluids to the prison, and ensuring immediate water and sanitation improvements.
The outbreak was traced back to unregulated street drinks and contaminated water sources, which were identified as sources of the cholera-causing bacteria, Vibrio cholerae. Samples from popular street beverages like Zobo showed the presence of the bacteria, highlighting the risks associated with informal and unregulated production practices.
In response, the Lagos State government has initiated actions to seal unregulated manufacturing sites and apprehend those involved in producing or distributing beverages without proper accreditation. There has been a notable decline in daily cholera cases recently, with no new deaths reported in the past 72 hours, indicating progress in containment efforts.
Moving forward, the government plans to enforce stricter sanitary and regulatory standards for eateries, food handlers, beverage manufacturers, and groundwater to prevent future outbreaks of food and water-borne diseases in Lagos. Collaborative efforts under the “One Health” approach will continue to ensure comprehensive sanitation measures and safe drinking water provisions across the state.