There have been 25 suspected cases of cholera reported in Ogun State across seven local government areas, according to the State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker. Out of these cases, nine have been confirmed and unfortunately, one death has been recorded.
The affected local government areas include Ado Odo/Ota, Remo North, Odeda, Sagamu, Ijebu North, Ewekoro, and Obafemi Owode. The state epidemiology unit is on high alert following this outbreak.
Collaboration is ongoing with various stakeholders from the Ministries of Environment, Information, and Education to manage the situation effectively. Treatment for cholera is readily available at public health facilities in the state, with rapid response teams in all 20 local government areas ready to assist.
Commissioner Coker emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “At inception, we received the alert on June 12, 2024, about the first two cases. Both cases tested positive with a Cholera rapid diagnostic kit and were managed at the State Hospital, Ota.”
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, highlighted the government’s efforts in addressing sanitation issues by constructing over 60 public toilets across the state. He also mentioned the improvements in waste management services and ongoing monitoring of water channels in densely populated areas.
Representing the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, Oluwole Majekodunmi urged school administrators to prioritize hygiene practices and educate students on the importance of cleanliness and handwashing.
Cholera vaccines are currently unavailable in the state, so the public is advised to adhere to preventive measures to minimize the spread of the disease.