By Jesse Akubude
Lagos, Nigeria, is currently grappling with a severe cholera outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of fifteen individuals and has hospitalized 60 others. The outbreak has primarily affected the Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe areas. According to Lagos State Health Commissioner, Professor Akin Abayomi, the victims largely suffered from extreme dehydration due to late presentation of symptoms.
Causes and Symptoms of Cholera
Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium. It spreads through the consumption of contaminated food and water, and is particularly prevalent in areas with inadequate water treatment, poor sanitation, and insufficient hygiene practices. Symptoms of cholera include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever, and, in severe cases, collapse
Government Response
In response to the outbreak, the Lagos State Government has activated a statewide heightened surveillance and response. The Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) are investigating possible water contamination sources, particularly in the Lekki Victoria Island axis. Samples have been taken to confirm the presence of cholera .
The government has issued a call for heightened vigilance and precautionary measures among residents. Urban slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation have been identified as high-risk zones due to their vulnerability to waterborne diseases following recent rains
Preventive Measures
To prevent the spread of cholera, the following measures are recommended:
1. Safe Drinking Water: Ensure all drinking water is safe by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water. Avoid consuming ice products made from untreated water.
2. Proper Sanitation: Use proper sanitation facilities to dispose of feces and avoid open defecation. Maintain clean environments to reduce the risk of contamination.
3. Good Hygiene Practices: Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, especially before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet. Follow food safety guidelines to ensure food is prepared and stored safely.
4. Prompt Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms of cholera to receive timely treatment and avoid severe dehydration. Treatment often involves rehydration using Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) or intravenous fluids for severe cases .
Future Prevention Strategies
Long-term prevention of cholera outbreaks involves improving infrastructure and public health systems. Key strategies include:
– Upgrading Water Treatment Facilities: Ensuring that water supply systems are capable of providing clean and safe drinking water.
– Enhancing Sanitation Infrastructure: Building and maintaining proper sanitation facilities in urban and rural areas to prevent open defecation and contamination of water sources.
– Public Health Education: Conducting continuous public health campaigns to educate citizens about hygiene practices and the importance of safe water and sanitation.
– Rapid Response Systems: Developing and maintaining efficient disease surveillance and response systems to quickly identify and address outbreaks .
By adopting these practices and staying informed, residents can help mitigate the impact of cholera and prevent future outbreaks.
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