Cholera Epidemic Claims Lives in Lagos

Here is a full story on the cholera epidemic in Lagos, based on the information provided:

Cholera Outbreak Hits Lagos, Claims Five Lives and Hospitalizes Sixty

Lagos, Nigeria – June 13, 2024 – A cholera outbreak has hit Lagos, Nigeria’s most populous city, claiming the lives of five people and hospitalizing 60 others. The Lagos State Government has issued a call for heightened vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

According to the state’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, cases of severe gastroenteritis have been reported in communities around Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe Local Government Areas. Abayomi disclosed that the state had recorded an excess report of severe gastroenteritis cases in the last 48 hours.

The Ministry of Health Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) have been alerted to investigate a possible water contamination source in the Lekki Victoria Island axis. The Commissioner noted that following recent rains, Lagos had witnessed a notable increase in cases of severe vomiting and watery stools, adding that urban slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation are particularly at risk.

Cholera is a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhea and can be life-threatening. It poses a significant health burden in areas with poor water treatment and sanitation, and could impact Lagos State.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 30 deaths from cholera in 2024. The NCDC has warned the public of the increasing trend of cholera cases across the country as the rainy season intensifies.

To reduce the risk of cholera, the NCDC advises the public to ensure that water is boiled and stored in a clean and covered container before drinking, and to practice good personal hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap under clean running water, using alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap and clean water are not available.

The Lagos State Government has urged citizens to rely on the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for guidance, advice on prevention and treatment. The government has restated its commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens.