The cholera outbreak in Lagos has resulted in 21 deaths and 401 suspected cases across the state as of Thursday.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, announced this in an update on the situation.
Dr. Ogunyemi highlighted that Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa have recorded the highest numbers of cases. The death toll has risen to 21, up from the previously reported 15 fatalities.
“The rise in cases was anticipated following the Ileya festivities, during which large gatherings occurred,” she noted.
However, she added that suspected cases are subsiding across local government areas due to state government interventions and surveillance efforts.
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Health and other agencies, is maintaining rigorous surveillance and monitoring the situation while implementing programs to curb the spread.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples of water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination. Surveillance activities have been intensified in affected communities to address the situation head-on.
“We are also working with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education as well as the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure all precautions are taken in our schools to protect children and scholars as they return,” Dr. Ogunyemi stated.
She urged residents to remain vigilant, practice good hand hygiene, and participate in community sanitation activities to stop the spread of cholera.
Citizens are advised to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever. Cholera treatment is provided free of charge at all public health facilities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to ensuring that residents of Lagos receive quality and affordable health care.
Dr. Ogunyemi extended gratitude to local, national, and international partners, including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, and the Red Cross, for their support in combating the outbreak.
“Appreciation is also extended to the dedicated team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, environmental health officers, Water Corporation officers, surveillance officers, heads of agencies, members of PHEOC, and volunteers who are working around the clock to combat the disease and keep Lagos safe,” she added.
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