Fatshimetry
In the heart of Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State in Nigeria, a sinister shadow hangs over the neighborhoods. Cholera, this insidious scourge, is causing panic among the population. State Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker recently confirmed 25 suspected cases in seven districts across the state. An alarming situation which raises fears and questions among residents.
Faced with this growing threat, the federal government has provided technical support to contain the epidemic, but the commissioner warned: cholera vaccines are no longer available in the state. She therefore called on residents to strictly adhere to precautionary measures to contain the disease.
The importance of personal hygiene, proper food handling and drinking clean water were highlighted as essential actions to prevent the spread of cholera. Cholera testing kits and treatment consumables have been distributed to all districts and designated treatment centers.
High risk areas have been identified and public toilets are being constructed across the state to prevent open defecation. The commissioner urged citizens to report any suspected cases and assured them that cholera treatment was free in all public facilities in the state.
She also stressed that cholera had spread to over 30 states, including neighboring states, but Ogun State was ready to protect the lives of the people and reduce the impact of the outbreak by compared to many other states in Nigeria.
To date, Ogun State has recorded 25 suspected cases of cholera in seven districts, with nine confirmed cases and unfortunately one death. To support the state’s response, the epidemiology unit is on high alert, while all district disease surveillance and reporting officers have intensified surveillance across all 20 districts.
The expectations of the population are clear: practice impeccable personal hygiene, wash food and fruit properly, drink clean water, discourage open defecation, cook food properly, and consult the nearest health center. in case of liquid stools more than twice in 8 hours.
Cholera testing kits and other items needed for treatment have been distributed to all districts and designated treatment centers to ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment. High risk areas and hotspots have been identified including Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Ijebu North, Obafemi Owode, Ifo and Adoodo Ota.
Environment Commissioner Ola Oresanya said the ministry had asked all restaurants, banks, shopping malls and petrol stations to provide their toilets to prevent open defecation. A crucial preventative measure to stem the spread of cholera.
The battle against cholera is far from over, but with collective action and effective preventive measures, Ogun State can hope to contain the outbreak and protect the health of its people. Let’s remain vigilant, respect health instructions and work together to defeat this insidious threat that plagues us.