Amid 350 suspected cholera cases so far recorded in Lagos, the epidemic has killed 15 persons in the state.
The Ministry of Health had also said that there are 17 confirmed cases in the state.
The Commissioner of Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, disclosed this while speaking on steps taken to control the outbreak.
He disclosed that 350 suspected cases had been reported in 29 wards across multiple LGAs in the state with 17 confirmed cases and 15 deaths so far.
“The laboratory investigation and test results have so far confirmed Cholera sub-type O-1. This subtype is associated with more severe disease. The pattern of new cases per day varies across LGAS, according to our ongoing surveillance and monitoring updates,” he said.
The Commissioner who spoke through the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, in a statement, however, said that the cases had started dropping.
“Although this is an increase from the numbers published three days ago. Cases are now dramatically subsiding in previously affected LGAs due to our interventions and surveillance efforts. However, we are recording some new cases in previously unaffected LGAs, signalling the need for residents to adhere strictly to precautionary, personal, and environmental hygiene measures,” he said.
“Inspections of facilities are ongoing. We are prepositioning cholera kits in health facilities across the state. Our efforts to control the outbreak also include the distribution of Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), and public health education campaigns,” he added.
The commissioner urged Lagos residents to adhere strictly to precautionary measures, cooperate with health authorities and participate in community-wide sanitation activities to checkmate the spread of the epidemic, especially during the Eid-Kabir celebration.
“Reporting symptoms like watery diarrhoea or vomiting immediately is also crucial, to save lives and prevent transmission to other members of the community,” he said.
“Treatment for suspected cholera is provided free of charge at all government facilities as part of government’s standard public health response,” the commissioner said.
