The Lagos State government has confirmed that the cholera strain currently affecting the state is highly aggressive and contagious. According to the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, the strain is subtype O-1, which is associated with more severe diseases.
As of June 18, 2024, Lagos has recorded 17 confirmed cases of cholera and 15 fatalities. The affected areas include Lagos Island, Kosofe, Eti-Osa, Lagos Mainland, Ojo, Ikorodu, Shomolu, Surulere, Apapa, Mushin, Ifako Ijaiye, Alimosho, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Oshodi-Isolo, Ikeja, Ibeju Lekki, Badagry, and Amuwo-Odofin.
The government has activated community-based case finding and contact tracing, which has led to a significant decline in the number of cases.
Support from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO) Nigeria, and UNICEF Nigeria has been received, and local non-governmental organizations are actively involved in raising awareness and conducting community-based surveillance efforts.
In response to the outbreak, the Ondo State government has also activated its surveillance for immediate response to any case of cholera in the state.
This development highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation among citizens, healthcare professionals, and government agencies to contain the spread of cholera and prevent further fatalities.
