“Public health experts are sounding the alarm: the combination of Coca-Cola and Maggi is in no way a viable medical solution to prevent or treat cholera. This is what Olugbogi, former COVID-19 Response Officer of the Nigeria Medical Association, Lagos and Public Health Physician at LCDA, Ifelodun, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
He warned of several social media posts touting the combination as a cure for cholera. Olugbogi stressed that toxicology testing of this combination could be detrimental to the health and well-being of individuals.
He noted that the cost of this combination was higher than that of oral rehydration salts (ORS). Why replace ORS with Maggi and Coca-Cola? This is alarming. ORS is a proven and reliable solution for treating cholera diarrhea or gastroenteritis.
Olugbogi stressed that cholera could be easily treated by promptly administering ORS. He recalled that during the COVID-19 and Ebola outbreaks, some people promoted the use of salt water for bathing as a remedy, which led to complications and deaths.
He warned the public against acting on things seen online, stressing that health advice from doctors and health authorities should be strictly followed to ensure health safety.
Regarding preventive measures against cholera, Olugbogi recommended washing hands with soap and running water before and after meals, and after using the toilet. The simple act of washing your hands with soap and water is crucial to controlling and preventing the spread of this viral disease.
He also advised washing vegetables and fruits well before consuming them, and boiling water before drinking it. Kitchen utensils such as spoons, bowls and cups should be washed properly before using them.
According to the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Nigeria has recorded over 1,100 suspected cases and 65 confirmed cases of cholera, resulting in over 30 deaths from January to June 2024 across 30 states. In Lagos, cases of severe gastroenteritis were reported, and it was confirmed to be cholera, with a highly contagious and potentially transmissible strain.
It is crucial to take the preventive measures recommended by health experts to fight cholera and protect the population against this deadly disease.”