ALERT: Five Die, 60 Hospitalised As Cholera Outbreak Hits Lagos State

No fewer than five persons have reportedly died following the outbreak of cholera in communities around Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu and Kosofe LGA of Lagos State.

60 persons are also said to hospitalized from the outbreak of the highly contagious disease.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who disclosed this while reacting to the state surveillance reports, said the state government has issued a call for heightened vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of a potential cholera outbreak in the state.

He noted that the outbreak resulted in about 60 hospital admissions, and five deaths recorded mainly from patients presenting late with extreme dehydration.

“We have activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response.

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.

We suspect a possible cholera outbreak; however, samples have been taken for confirmation. As of April 28, 2024, Nigeria reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states,”

he said.

The Commissioner noted that following recent rains, Lagos State has seen 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.

According to the World Health Organisation, cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Its transmission is linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

“Cholera spreads through direct transmission by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, and indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and lack of handwashing,”

Akin Abayomi explained.

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Symptoms of cholera include:

Severe watery diarrhoea
Vomiting
Rapid dehydration
Muscle cramps
Fever, and potential collapse
Treatment options range from oral rehydration salts (ORS) for mild cases to intravenous fluids for severe dehydration, administered only in medical facilities.

Preventing the spread involves:

Ensuring safe drinking water by boiling, chlorination, or bottled water. Avoid ice products made from untreated water.

Proper sanitation practices like toilets, safe waste disposal, and avoiding open defecation.
Consistent handwashing with soap and clean water, especially before eating, preparing food, and using the toilet.

Following food safety guidelines.

Residents are advised to rely on the Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and accredited local health facilities for updates and guidance. Report suspected cases to hotlines 08023169485, 08137412348, or helplines 767 or 112