Cholera outbreak: Lagos records 29 deaths from 579 suspected cases

5 months ago 21

The number of deaths from the Cholera outbreak in Lagos has risen to 29, with suspected cases soaring to 579 from 43 confirmed cases.

This was revealed on Monday by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi at a news conference to provide an update on the cholera outbreak in the state.

The Commissioner said the number of deaths spiked because a majority of patients presented themselves late to the hospitals.

Abayomi added that the government and its partners had embarked on active case search and contact tracing to ensure that the spread of cholera is halted.

He, therefore, implored Lagosians with suspected cases to report to the hospitals as treatment is free in a bid to slow down the spread.

Abayomi stated that government officials had also deliberately gone out to search for those with suspected cases of cholera.

The Commissioner listed the symptoms of cholera to include profuse diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, abdominal cramps, and shock.

He also said that those affected with cholera could be given Oral Rehydration therapy (ORT) to halt the dehydration before they are taken to the hospital.

The commissioner disclosed that since the outbreak on 5 June 2024, cases had been rising, with the highest cases reported on 10 June.

He listed areas with the highest cholera burden including Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, and Kosofe Local Governments, while there are cases in Ajeromi, and Ifako Ijaiye, among others.

The commissioner said many children were affected by the cholera outbreak along with traders and artisans.

He, however, said reported cases had nose-dived currently, adding that no cases had been reported in any Lagos school.