The Lagos State government clarified that the cholera strain in Lagos is extremely aggressive and contagious. The Lagos State government clarified that the cholera strain in Lagos is extremely aggressive and contagious.
Lagos has reported 17 confirmed cases of cholera, resulting in 15 fatalities so far.
The identified cholera strain, subtype O-1, known for causing severe illnesses, was confirmed through laboratory analysis.
According to Professor Akin Abayomi, the Commissioner for Health, this strain is highly aggressive and easily spread, with a potential for broad dissemination. Through community-based case identification and contact tracing, a decline in the number of cases has been observed after reaching a peak.
Professor Akin Abayomi
The outbreak’s epicenter is Lagos Island, with other affected areas including 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. Support from the NCDC, WHO Nigeria, UNICEF Nigeria, and local NGOs has been crucial in awareness-raising and community surveillance efforts.
On the other hand, the Ondo State government has activated surveillance to respond promptly to any cholera cases.
Dr. Banji Ajaka, the Health Commissioner, mentioned two cases in the Okitipupa council area earlier in the year, which were controlled by the state’s Rapid Response team.
Dr. Banji Ajaka
The surveillance team has been reinforced by the COPREP program, with trained community informants and contact tracers prepared for active case detection in anticipation of a cholera outbreak.
