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The Lagos State Government has issued a warning for increased alertness and the implementation of precautionary measures to stop the potential spread of a cholera outbreak in the state.
This warning comes after an increase in severe cases of gastroenteritis reported in Lagos in the past 48 hours.
Addressing the surveillance reports received by the Ministry of Health, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, revealed that cases of severe gastroenteritis have been identified in communities around Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe LGA.
This has resulted in approximately 60 hospital admissions, with five deaths recorded mainly from patients presenting late with extreme dehydration.
"We have activated a comprehensive surveillance and response across the state. The Ministry of Health Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) have been notified to investigate a potential water contamination source in the Lekki Victoria Island area. Although we suspect a potential cholera outbreak, samples have been collected for confirmation. As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria has reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states," he stated.
The Commissioner highlighted that following recent rainfall, Lagos State has witnessed a significant rise in cases of severe vomiting and watery stools.
He added that urban slums and densely populated areas with poor sanitation are particularly vulnerable. Prof. Akin Abayomi explained that cholera is a highly contagious disease that leads to severe diarrhea and can be life-threatening, especially in areas with inadequate water treatment and sanitation, potentially impacting Lagos State.
"Cholera is transmitted through direct contact by consuming contaminated food or water, as well as indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and inadequate handwashing. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and sometimes collapse," he commented.
