The Lagos State Government has called for increased vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to prevent a potential cholera outbreak following a surge in severe gastroenteritis cases reported within the last 48 hours.
In a statement on Tuesday, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, revealed that cases of severe gastroenteritis have been reported in communities within Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe Local Government Areas. These cases have resulted in approximately 60 hospital admissions and five fatalities, primarily due to patients presenting late with severe dehydration.
“We have initiated a statewide heightened surveillance and response,” Abayomi stated.
“The Ministry of Health Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency have been alerted to investigate a possible source of water contamination in the Lekki and Victoria Island areas.”
Prof. Abayomi suggested that a cholera outbreak could be responsible for the increase in gastroenteritis cases, though confirmation is pending the analysis of collected samples. He also noted that, as of April 28, 2024, Nigeria had reported 815 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across 25 states.
The Commissioner provided emergency hotlines for reporting suspected cases: 08023169485 and 08137412348, as well as the general helplines 767 and 112. He assured the public that they would be kept informed and emphasized the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to the health and well-being of Lagos State residents.
“We urge everyone to adopt preventive measures and promptly report any suspected cases to safeguard our communities,” Abayomi concluded.
