Government’s Rapid Response
Amidst the ongoing cholera outbreak, especially in Lagos, the Federal Government has swiftly provided test kits and essential supplies to 22 states. Dr Oyebanji Filani, Chairman of the Forum of Health Commissioners of Nigeria, confirmed this measure. Meanwhile, Lagos State has reported 500 suspected cholera cases as containment efforts escalate.
Increase in Cholera Cases
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has documented over 1,528 suspected cholera cases across 31 states. Lagos, Bayelsa, Zamfara, and Abia are among the most severely affected. Contaminated water and poor sanitation, exacerbated by the rainy season, are the primary causes of the outbreak.
Emphasis on Prevention
Dr Oyebanji Filani noted that no state has received the cholera vaccine due to its short immunity duration. He emphasized the critical role of preventive measures and rapid treatment. Current efforts focus on enhancing health promotion, water hygiene, and sanitation to mitigate the outbreak’s effects.
Federal Support Efforts
Dr Filani, who also serves as the Commissioner for Health in Ekiti State, acknowledged the Federal Government’s distribution of consumables, test kits, and Personal Protection Equipment (PPEs) to various states. Bayelsa, Zamfara, and Lagos, among others, have received these resources to bolster their response efforts.
Situation in Lagos
In Lagos, the number of suspected cholera cases has increased to around 500. Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, reported a decline in new cases due to extensive public awareness campaigns. She mentioned ongoing screenings at state health centres and the anticipated arrival of the cholera vaccine from the Federal Government.
Nationwide Coordination
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has activated the Emergency Operation Centre for Cholera to manage response activities. Additionally, the Federal Ministry of Environment is working to stop cholera transmission through water and food testing, sanitation campaigns, and household water chlorination.
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