The Ogun State government has confirmed a cholera outbreak with 25 cases reported across seven local government areas (LGAs). One fatality has been recorded in Ijebu North, located in the Ogun East Senatorial district. This development follows the confirmation of 24 deaths and 350 suspected cases in Lagos State by Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health.
Contents
Details of the Outbreak
During a press briefing at the Olusegun Osoba press center in Abeokuta, the state capital, Dr. Tomi Coker, the Commissioner for Health, disclosed the details of the outbreak. She highlighted that free surveillance and emergency treatment measures have been activated across all 20 LGAs to mitigate the spread of the disease. The most affected areas include Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Obafemi/Owode, Ijebu North, Ado-Odo/Ota, and other neighboring regions.
Dr. Coker assured the public of the state government’s readiness to combat the outbreak, urging residents to maintain high levels of personal and public hygiene. She emphasized that the state’s robust preparedness and ongoing efforts have minimized the impact of the outbreak compared to other states.
Timeline and Response
The first alert about the cholera cases was received on June 12, 2024, when two cases tested positive using a cholera rapid diagnostic kit. These initial cases, managed at the State Hospital in Ota, had travel histories to Lagos State. By June 24, 2024, the number of suspected cases had risen to 25, with 9 confirmed cases and one death.
Given these findings, Dr. Coker declared an ongoing cholera outbreak in Ogun State. She noted that prior to the outbreak, the state had established a robust surveillance system in all 20 LGAs, ensuring prompt detection and response to emerging cases.
Origin and Spread
The initial 8 cases traced back to Lagos State, considered the epicenter of the outbreak. These cases involved individuals who had recently traveled to Lagos, with 6 of them consuming a tiger nut drink during their visit. Additionally, cholera was promptly diagnosed in 5 contacts of these patients, further confirming the disease’s spread from Lagos.
To bolster the state’s response, the epidemiology unit remains on high alert. Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers across all LGAs have intensified their efforts, and private health facilities have been sensitized to report any suspected cases immediately.
Government Measures and Public Involvement
Dr. Coker highlighted several measures taken by the state government to contain the outbreak:
- Enhanced Surveillance: LGAs have trained rapid-response teams ready to act at short notice, in collaboration with the Ogun State Emergency and Ambulance Service.
- Provision of Resources: Cholera test kits and necessary consumables for treatment have been distributed to all LGAs and designated treatment centers. Treatment for cholera is free at all government facilities.
- Multi-Sectoral Collaboration: The Ministry of Health is coordinating the response in collaboration with the Ministries of Environment, Information, Education, and other stakeholders.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government has launched sensitization campaigns across various media platforms, promoting preventive measures, good hygiene, and sanitation practices.
The Emergency Operations Centre has been activated and is tracking the situation closely, ensuring that each involved department fulfills its role in curbing the outbreak. The Ministry of Environment is particularly focused on eliminating open defecation and improving environmental hygiene to prevent further spread.
Community Engagement
Residents are encouraged to report any suspected cholera cases promptly using the provided hotlines: 08038642812, 07034214893, and 08084250881. This collaborative effort aims to ensure a swift response to any new cases, thereby controlling the outbreak effectively.
Conclusion
The Ogun State government’s proactive measures and coordinated response efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting public health. By maintaining high vigilance and community involvement, the state aims to control the cholera outbreak and prevent further casualties. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, adhere to hygiene guidelines, and support the government’s efforts in managing the outbreak.
For more information, visit the original report on Channels TV.
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