Nigerians, brace yourselves! Cholera is on the loose again, causing quite a stir at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre. The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has confirmed 25 severe cases of gastroenteritis, all thanks to our old enemy, Cholera.
Why It Matters
This alarming news came via a Sunday press release signed by the State Ministry of Health’s Director of Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo. But fear not, Prof. Abayomi assured that swift medical and environmental measures have been implemented successfully.
During the “One Health” inter-governmental agency strategic meeting over the weekend, Abayomi shared the latest updates on this cholera crisis. He was relieved to announce that there have been no new cholera-related deaths in the past 72 hours. However, the government is doubling down on efforts to completely eradicate the disease.
Despite a decline in new cases and deaths, Abayomi confirmed that there is still evidence of ongoing low-grade community transmission. He praised the public for adhering to health guidelines and promptly seeking medical attention when symptoms arise.
What They Are saying
Yet, the spotlight remains on the Kirikiri Correctional Centre, where 25 cases of severe gastroenteritis were confirmed to be caused by cholera. Abayomi noted that immediate medical and environmental interventions at the prison have shown positive results.
The Commissioner elaborated, “We provided Kirikiri medium prison with intravenous fluids, infection prevention supplies, and other health essentials. The World Health Organisation also chipped in with 10,000 doses of pharmaceuticals to support the health needs of about 3,200 inmates. Water and sanitation issues have been swiftly addressed, and inspections of other correctional facilities are ongoing.”
Tracing the outbreak back two weeks, Abayomi pointed the finger at unregulated street beverages and contaminated water supplies. Samples taken from popular street drinks by undercover environmental officers revealed the presence of Vibrio cholerae bacteria – the cholera culprit. Shockingly, these containers lacked NAFDAC accreditation numbers, indicating they were produced in informal backyard operations. Efforts are underway to shut down these illegal manufacturers and apprehend those responsible.
To combat the spread, the state government, in collaboration with the Lagos Water Corporation and sanitation agencies (LAWMA and LASWAMO), is enforcing strict environmental health measures. These include extensive sanitation activities, inspection and disinfection of boreholes, and more.
Bottom Line
Abayomi urged the public to take personal responsibility by consuming safe water, food, and beverages, maintaining good hygiene, starting oral rehydration therapy, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting appear. He reassured that cholera treatment is free in all government hospitals.
So, Nigerians, stay alert and stay safe!
