In a grim revelation, the Ogun State Government has confirmed 25 cases of cholera across seven local government areas, with one tragic death recorded in Ijebu North of the Ogun East Senatorial District.
Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker announced these alarming figures during a press briefing at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre in Abeokuta. Amid rising concerns, she assured the public that free surveillance and emergency treatment have been rolled out across all 20 local government areas of the state.
Most Affected Areas
The most affected areas include:
- Abeokuta South
- Abeokuta North
- Obafemi/Owode
- Ijebu North
- Ado-Odo/Ota
Dr. Coker emphasized the importance of maintaining high levels of personal and public hygiene to curb the disease’s spread, urging residents to stay vigilant.
Government’s Response and Preparedness
“We are always prepared for outbreaks and other public health threats,” Dr. Coker stated. “Our proactive measures and robust preparedness have significantly minimized the cholera outbreak’s impact in Ogun State compared to other Nigerian states.”
Dr. Coker disclosed that the state received an alert on June 12th, 2024, regarding the first two cholera cases. These patients, who had recently traveled to Lagos, tested positive with a rapid diagnostic kit and were treated at the State Hospital in Ota. As of June 24th, 2024, Ogun State has reported 25 suspected cases across seven LGAs, with nine confirmed cases and one death.
Declaring an Outbreak
Given these findings, Dr. Coker officially declared an ongoing cholera outbreak in Ogun State. “Our surveillance system, in place across all 20 local government areas, ensured prompt detection of cases,” she explained. The initial cases were traced back to Lagos, the reported epicenter of the outbreak, with several patients having consumed tiger nut drinks there.
Heightened Surveillance and Public Awareness
The state epidemiology unit remains on high alert, and all local government disease surveillance officers have intensified monitoring efforts. Dr. Coker urged private health facilities and citizens to report any suspected cholera cases immediately via the provided hotlines: 08038642812, 07034214893, and 08084250881.
Trained rapid-response teams in all 20 LGAs, in collaboration with the Ogun State Emergency and Ambulance Service, stand ready to respond swiftly to any calls.
Preventive Measures
To prevent further spread, Dr. Coker advised:
- Washing food, fruits, and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
- Drinking only clean, boiled water
- Discouraging open defecation
- Cooking food thoroughly
- Seeking medical attention if experiencing watery stools more than twice within eight hours
Nationwide Impact
Kunle Ashimi, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association in Ogun State, highlighted that cholera has impacted 30 states across Nigeria, including Ogun. Additionally, Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, reported 24 fatalities and 350 suspected cases in Lagos.
This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for rigorous hygiene practices and prompt medical attention to combat this deadly disease effectively. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community.
