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21 Dead As Cholera Outbreak Hits Lagos, Infections Surge To 400
The number of infections has also seen a significant rise, increased from 350 to 401 cases
Ikeja, Lagos State– The cholera outbreak in Lagos State has taken a troubling turn as the death toll has increased from 15 to 21, according to recent statements from the Lagos State Government.
The number of infections has also seen a significant rise, increased from 350 to 401 cases.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, stated that the increase in cases was expected due to the large gatherings during the Eid-el Kabir celebration.
Ogunyemi, in an update statement released by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs for the state’s Ministry of Health, on Thursday, June 20, in Lagos.
The statement stated that the cases increased to 401 across Lagos, with Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa, recording the highest numbers of infections.
She noted that suspected cases are subsiding across local government areas (LGAs), particularly in previously affected LGAs due to the state government’s interventions and surveillance efforts.
She gave the update on the outbreak after meeting with members of the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).
“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the State Ministry of Environment and its agency, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), continues to collect samples of water sources, food, and beverages to identify the source of contamination.
“We have also intensified our surveillance activities in communities, particularly in affected local government areas, to address the situation head-on.
“We are also working with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, as well as the Ministry of Tertiary Education to ensure all precautions are taken in our schools to protect children and scholars as they return.
“Residents must, however, remain vigilant, practice good hand hygiene, and participate in community sanitation activities to stop the spread of cholera.”
Ogunyemi advised citizens to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as watery diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise and fever.
She added that cholera treatment was provided free of charge at all public health facilities.
Ogunyemi reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring that residents of Lagos receive quality and affordable health care.
The Special Adviser commended local, national, and international partners—including UNICEF, WHO, NCDC, NIMR, Red Cross, and others—for their support in combating the outbreak.