Nigeria faces a surge in cholera cases, both Kogi and Lagos States have confirmed outbreaks and are ramping up efforts to contain the disease. This article examines the measures being taken by both states to combat the cholera threat and ensure public safety.
Kogi State’s Response
Kogi State has confirmed two cases of cholera in Lokoja and Omala Local Government Areas. The announcement came from Dorothy Onoja, the public relations officer of the state’s Ministry of Health, highlighting the government’s swift reaction to the outbreak.
In response, the Kogi State Government has set up a dedicated cholera response team. This team, comprising healthcare workers, surveillance officers, and laboratory technicians, is tasked with investigating reported cases, collecting samples, and providing appropriate treatment. Dr. Abdulazeez Adeiza, the Commissioner for Health, has emphasized the state’s commitment to preventing a widespread outbreak.
“We are fortunate that Kogi has seen minimal impact so far, with one patient already discharged and the other receiving treatment without any fatalities,” Adeiza stated. The Health Ministry has implemented rigorous surveillance protocols, trained healthcare professionals, and launched extensive awareness campaigns. The Commissioner also stressed the importance of community involvement, collaborating with local leaders to educate the public on hygiene practices essential to preventing cholera.
Lagos State’s Challenge in Correctional Facilities
Lagos State has reported a more severe situation, particularly within the Kirikiri Medium Security Prison, where 25 cases of cholera-induced gastroenteritis have been confirmed. This contradicts earlier claims by the National Correctional Service (NCoS) spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, who had assured that correctional centers were cholera-free.
Tunbosun Ogunbawo, the Director of Public Affairs for the Lagos State Ministry of Health, has confirmed that urgent medical and environmental interventions are underway. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stepped in to assist, donating 10,000 doses of pharmaceuticals and providing intravenous fluids and other medical supplies to support the prison’s health facilities.
Despite these measures, Lagos State continues to experience low-grade community transmission. However, the government is intensifying efforts to eliminate the disease, with no new cholera-related deaths reported in the last 72 hours. Ogunbawo noted that public adherence to health advice and early presentation to health facilities are critical in managing the outbreak.
Cholera’s Broader Impact in Lagos
In June, Lagos declared a cholera outbreak after recording 436 suspected cases. This number quickly rose, with over 500 suspected cases and a 5.4% fatality rate among confirmed cases. Investigations have linked the outbreak to contaminated water supplies and unregulated street beverages. Environmental officers found cholera bacteria in samples from these beverages, none of which had National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) accreditation.
The state government is working to shut down these unregulated production units and arrest those involved. Over the past six months, more than 1,000 suspected cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 30 deaths have been reported from various Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Nigeria.
Conclusion
Both Kogi and Lagos States are taking significant steps to address the cholera outbreaks within their jurisdictions. While Kogi’s swift response has so far limited the impact, Lagos faces a more challenging situation, particularly within its correctional facilities. The collaboration between state health authorities and international organizations like WHO is crucial in managing and eventually eradicating this public health threat. Public awareness, community involvement, and strict adherence to hygiene practices remain the cornerstone of these efforts.
