Lagos State is grappling with a cholera outbreak that has claimed the lives of 15 individuals, with 350 suspected cases recorded across multiple local government areas (LGAs).
According to a statement released by the Lagos Ministry of Health at the weekend, Commissioner for Health Professor Akin Abayomi provided updates on the situation, highlighting efforts taken to contain the outbreak.
“We have recorded 350 suspected cases of cholera in 29 wards across multiple LGAs in Lagos State, with 17 confirmed cases and 15 fatalities so far,” stated the ministry.
Professor Abayomi acknowledged the severity of the cholera strain affecting the state, stating, “The laboratory investigation and test results have so far confirmed Cholera sub-type O-1. This subtype is associated with more severe disease.”
While noting a recent decrease in cases within previously affected LGAs due to intervention measures, Abayomi cautioned about new cases emerging in previously unaffected areas.
This trend underscores the ongoing need for strict adherence to personal and environmental hygiene practices among residents.
“We are prepositioning cholera kits in health facilities across the State and distributing Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), alongside vigorous public health education campaigns,” the commissioner emphasized.
Abayomi urged Lagos residents to adhere strictly to preventive measures, collaborate with health authorities, and participate in community-wide sanitation efforts to curb further transmission.
He underscored the importance of promptly reporting symptoms such as watery diarrhea or vomiting to healthcare providers, stressing that treatment for suspected cholera is available free of charge at all government health facilities.
The Lagos Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, deploying resources and intensifying surveillance to contain the cholera outbreak effectively across the state.