The Lagos State Government has revealed that unregistered tiger nut drinks were a significant factor in the recent cholera outbreak in the state. Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, provided insights into the outbreak during an interview with Victoria Edeme.
Dr. Ogunyemi noted that while
isolated cases of cholera are common in Nigeria, a surge between June 10 and
11, 2024, marked an outbreak. The most affected areas include Lagos Island,
Kosofe, and Eti-Osa. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
(NCDC) anticipates cholera outbreaks, especially during the rainy season, due
to environmental conditions and social determinants of health, such as
inadequate clean water and poor sanitation.
The outbreak's rapid spread was
linked to environmental health issues. “Open defecation and reliance on well
water, which gets contaminated during rains, are major factors,” Dr. Ogunyemi
explained. In Eti-Osa, a survey identified unregistered tiger nut drinks as a
common factor among patients. These drinks, not approved by the National Agency
for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), were traced through
empty bottles found during the investigation.
Stool samples confirmed Vibrio
cholera subtype 01, the most infectious strain. Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, and
Kosofe reported the highest number of hospital cases. Dr. Ogunyemi highlighted
the importance of early medical intervention, advising against self-medication
with antibiotics. The state has set up an emergency office in Yaba and
continues to test stool specimens.
The outbreak has significantly
impacted health and daily lives in affected areas. Awareness campaigns have led
to a noticeable reduction in the sale of tiger nut drinks in Eti-Osa. Residents
have been urged to boil water, practice regular handwashing, and avoid open
defecation. Dr. Ogunyemi reported that fatalities increased to 21 as of
Thursday, with some patients dying before reaching the hospital.
Cholera symptoms include
abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, muscle cramps, rapid heart rate, and
general fatigue. Symptoms can appear within 24 hours of infection. Immediate
medical attention is crucial, and the NCDC has distributed rapid diagnostic
tests to hospitals for on-site confirmation. Hospitals prioritize rehydration
therapy for all patients presenting with diarrhoea or vomiting.
Lagos State is working with
national and international health organizations, including UNICEF, the Red
Cross, and the World Health Organization (WHO). These partnerships focus on
monitoring, community surveillance, and providing necessary information and
resources. The government has assured that treatment for cholera at public
hospitals is free, addressing economic concerns that might deter individuals
from seeking medical care.
Dr. Ogunyemi emphasized that
the situation is under control and urged residents not to panic. The NCDC is
closely monitoring the outbreak and conducting risk assessments to prevent
further spread. The government's proactive measures aim to contain the outbreak
and protect public health.
Post a Comment