Cholera Outbreak Kills 5 in Lagos: 5 Ways to Prevent it

The Lagos State Government has issued a warning after five people died from a suspected cholera outbreak within just 48 hours. the deaths occurred amid reports of acute gastroenteritis in various localities including Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe LGAs. 

These areas have seen a spike in severe vomiting and diarrheal cases following recent rains, notably in densely populated and poorly sanitized regions.

Given the situation, the state has intensified its surveillance and response efforts. The health and environmental authorities are actively investigating potential sources of water contamination, particularly around the Lekki Victoria Island area. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirms a broader national crisis with 815 suspected cases and 14 deaths across 25 states.

Cholera is fast-acting and potentially fatal, spreading through contaminated food or water. Its prevention hinges on immediate and community-wide engagement in hygiene and sanitation practices. Here are five crucial steps to prevent cholera:

Safe Water Consumption

The consumption of uncontaminated water is paramount in cholera prevention. Boiling water kills pathogens, making it safe for drinking and cooking. 

It is advisable to use bottled water for all drinking and culinary purposes to avoid any risk of contamination. Additionally, any ice used should be made from water that has been boiled or chlorinated. This ensures that cholera bacteria are not ingested through seemingly safe but contaminated cold drinks.

Frequent Hand Washing

Hand hygiene plays a critical role in preventing the spread of cholera. Regular and thorough washing with soap and clean water significantly reduces the transmission of the disease. It is particularly important to wash hands before meals, after using the restroom, and during the preparation of food. 

This practice removes germs that might have been picked up through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials, making it a simple yet highly effective method to curb the spread of cholera and other similar infectious diseases.

Proper sanitation

Using structured sanitation facilities such as latrines or toilets is crucial, as opposed to open defecation, which significantly raises the risk of water source contamination. Proper disposal of human waste is essential not only in maintaining hygiene but also in preventing waterborne diseases like cholera. 

Communities should be encouraged to develop and maintain clean, accessible sanitation facilities and to engage in educational campaigns about the dangers of inadequate waste management. These efforts are vital in fostering a hygienic environment and reducing the spread of infections.

Cook food thoroughly

Cholera can also spread through improperly cooked or handled food. It is essential to cook all food thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot. Covering food prevents contaminants from coming into contact with it, further reducing the risk of cholera.

Fruits and vegetables should be washed with safe, treated water, or peeled before consumption to eliminate any bacteria present on the exterior. These steps, combined with general food safety practices, form a strong defense against cholera.

Community cleanliness

Maintaining cleanliness within the community is crucial in preventing the proliferation of cholera. Regular and proper disposal of waste, especially in crowded urban areas, helps prevent the conditions that allow cholera to thrive.

Communities should avoid water stagnation, which can serve as breeding grounds for disease vectors like flies and mosquitoes. By ensuring environmental cleanliness, communities can significantly lower the risk of cholera and other communicable diseases, promoting overall health and well-being.