The Lagos State Government says the number of deaths from cholera outbreak in the state has increased from 15 to 21, while infections increased to 401 from 350.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, disclosed this in an update released by the Director of Public Affairs in the State Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

Ogunyemi said the rise in the cases was anticipated following the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, in which large gatherings occurred.

She said the cases increased to 401 across Lagos, with Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa recording the highest numbers of infections.

Ogunyemi, however, noted that suspected cases are subsiding across Local Government Areas, particularly in previously affected LGAs due to the state government’s interventions and surveillance efforts.

She gave the update on the outbreak after meeting with members of the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).

The Special Adviser noted: “The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the State Ministry of Environment and its agency, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples of water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination.

Cholera: NCDC records 30 deaths, warns against contaminated water, food

“We have also intensified our surveillance activities in communities, particularly in affected local government areas, 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.

“Residents must, however, remain vigilant, practice good hand hygiene, and participate in community sanitation activities to stop the spread of cholera.”

Ogunyemi enjoined Lagosians to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as watery diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever.

She added that treatment for cholera was provided free of charge at all public health facilities.

Ogunyemi reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring that residents receive quality and affordable health care in the state.

The Special Adviser, therefore, commended local, national, and international partners – including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, Red Cross, and others – for their support in combating the outbreak.

“Appreciation is also extended to the dedicated team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory 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,” Ogunyemi stated.

The Star