The Lagos government battles a Cholera outbreak as the death toll rises to 21

The Lagos State Government is grappling with a growing cholera outbreak, with health officials reporting 21 deaths and 401 confirmed cases as of Thursday, June 20, 2024.

This spike in cases has raised significant concerns among residents and public health authorities.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by consuming contaminated food or water. This can cause severe dehydration and death if left untreated.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health attributed the outbreak to poor sanitation and hygiene practices, particularly in densely populated areas with limited access to clean water.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Lagos State, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, has said that suspected cholera cases in the state have risen to 401 with 21 deaths.

The statement noted that Lagos, Kosofe and Eti Osa Islands recorded the highest numbers.

Also Read: Tinubu holds bilateral talks with SA President Ramaphosa, promises closer ties (Video)

This was revealed in a statement on Thursday signed by the Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo.

“Following the latest developments regarding the cholera outbreak in Lagos, which reported 350 suspected cases and 15 deaths, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Lagos State, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, revealed that the total number of cholera cases has risen to 401 across Lagos. , with Lagos Island, Kosofe and Eti Osa recording the highest numbers.

“Dr. Ogunyemi disclosed this today while providing an update on the outbreak after meeting with members of the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre. He added that the death toll also rose to 21, an increase of six from the previously reported 15 deaths,” the statement read in part.

The Ministry of Health has launched a public awareness campaign to educate citizens about cholera prevention methods, including washing hands with soap, proper hygiene practices, and consuming only treated drinking water. Additionally, they are working to improve sanitation in affected areas by providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also supports the efforts of the Lagos State government to control the outbreak. They have deployed technical experts to assist with case management, supervision, and community engagement activities.

“Early diagnosis and treatment is very important to prevent death from cholera,” said Dr. Nneka Okafor, WHO representative in Nigeria. “We urge residents to immediately seek medical attention if they experience cholera-like symptoms, such as severe diarrhea and vomiting.”

The ongoing cholera outbreak highlights the importance of good sanitation and hygiene practices in densely populated areas such as Lagos. Continued efforts by the Lagos State government and WHO are critical to controlling this outbreak and preventing further deaths.

The post Lagos government battles Cholera outbreak and death toll rises to 21 appeared first on Latest Nigerian News | Top News from Ripples Nigeria.