The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi, announced a significant rise in fatalities due to the cholera outbreak in Lagos State, with the death toll reaching 21.
This increase follows the last report of 350 suspected cases and 15 deaths.
Ogunyemi reported that the number of cholera cases has surged to 401, with Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa being the most affected areas.
She provided this update on Thursday after a meeting with the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).
The recent spike in cases and fatalities was expected due to the large gatherings during the Ileya festivities.
However, Ogunyemi noted that suspected cases are now declining across local government areas (LGAs), particularly those previously affected, thanks to state government interventions and enhanced surveillance.
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Health and its partner agencies, is actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to control the outbreak.
Efforts include collecting samples from water sources, food, and beverages to identify contamination sources and intensifying community surveillance, particularly in the hardest-hit areas.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Tertiary Education ensures precautions are in place to protect students returning to school.
Ogunyemi urged residents to maintain good hand hygiene and participate in community sanitation to prevent further spread of cholera.
She advised immediate medical attention for symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, and fever, emphasizing that cholera treatment is free at all public health facilities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains dedicated to providing quality, affordable healthcare. Ogunyemi expressed gratitude to local, national, and international partners—including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, and the Red Cross—for their support. She also thanked the medical professionals, health officers, and volunteers working tirelessly to combat the outbreak and ensure the safety of Lagos residents.
