The Lagos State government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has confirmed an outbreak of cholera at Kirikiri prison. The State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, provided updates on the situation, noting that the government has received additional support from the World Health Organization (WHO) to combat the infectious disease.
Prof. Abayomi detailed the government’s immediate response, which included supplying Kirikiri medium prison with intravenous fluids, infection prevention measures, and other health consumables. The WHO has also donated 10,000 doses of pharmaceuticals to support the prison’s health facilities, aiding approximately 3,200 inmates if needed. Additionally, immediate water and sanitation issues at the prison have been addressed, and inspections of other correctional facilities in the state are ongoing.
The cholera outbreak in Lagos was traced to unregulated street drinks and contaminated water sources. Samples from popular sobo street beverages, collected by undercover environmental officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Ministry of Health, confirmed the presence of Vibrio cholerae bacteria, the causative agent of cholera. The samples lacked NAFDAC accreditation numbers, indicating they were produced in informal, unregulated units. Efforts are underway to identify and shut down these production sites and arrest those involved in the manufacture and distribution of unregulated beverages.
Prof. Abayomi reported a significant decrease in daily cholera cases compared to the peak two weeks ago. Although low-grade community transmission persists, the number of new cases has declined, and there have been no cholera-related deaths in the past 72 hours. This indicates that the intervention measures are effective.
The Lagos State government is implementing a “One Health” approach, collaborating with the Lagos Water Corporation and sanitation agencies (LAWMA and LASWAMO). Measures include extensive sanitation activities, inspection and disinfection of boreholes, providing safe drinking water to affected areas, and enforcing stricter regulations on local beverage producers.
Prof. Abayomi emphasized the necessity of continuous vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines. He urged residents to ensure the consumption of safe water, food, and drinks, maintain proper personal hygiene, start oral rehydration therapy, and promptly seek medical help if experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. He assured that suspected cholera treatment remains free at all government hospitals.
The commissioner expressed confidence that with ongoing collaboration, vigilance, and dedication from all parties involved, the state is effectively combating and managing the spread of cholera, thereby protecting the health and well-being of its inhabitants.
