The Commissioner for Health in Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has announced an increase in cholera-related fatalities to 15 amid ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak, urging residents to observe caution during the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Abayomi disclosed that the state has recorded 350 suspected cases of cholera across 29 wards spanning multiple local government areas, with 17 cases confirmed and 15 resulting in fatalities.
Laboratory investigations have identified cholera sub-type O-1, associated with more severe disease outcomes. While reporting a decline in new cases within previously affected areas due to intensified interventions and surveillance, Abayomi highlighted new cases emerging in previously unaffected local government areas.
“Our Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, is fully operational, coordinating responses to severe gastroenteritis cases reported across various LGAs,” Abayomi stated.
He underscored collaborative efforts between the Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, involving water and food sampling and facility inspections in affected areas.
The distribution of cholera kits and oral rehydration solutions, alongside public health education campaigns, forms part of the state’s control measures.
Abayomi emphasized that a strategic meeting with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, World Health Organisation, and key partners had optimized intervention strategies. He urged residents to support government efforts by adhering to hygiene protocols and promptly reporting symptoms.
“As we approach the Eid-ul-Adha festivities, I urge residents to prioritize safe drinking water, thorough cooking of food, and rigorous personal hygiene practices. Avoiding crowded places and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms such as watery diarrhea or vomiting remains critical,” Abayomi advised.
He reassured residents of free treatment for suspected cholera cases across government health facilities, reaffirming the state’s commitment to containing the outbreak and safeguarding public health.
Earlier reports from the state had identified severe gastroenteritis outbreaks in Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe LGAs, resulting in hospitalizations and fatalities primarily due to delayed medical attention.
The Lagos State Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, urging proactive community participation in sanitation activities to curb cholera transmission during the festive period.
