A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP)in Boripe LGA of Osun, Hon. Abiodun Ajayi has issued a call for heightened vigilance and the adoption of precautionary measures to prevent cholera outbreak in the State.
This is as the Lagos State government on Saturday confirmed 17 cases of the disease out of 350 suspected cases in 29 wards of the state.
The State Ministry of Health disclosed that cases of severe gastroenteritis have been reported in communities around Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu and Kosofe LGA, resulting in about 60 hospital admissions, and sadly five deaths have been recorded mainly from patients presenting late with extreme dehydration.
Speaking on the surveillance reports during a chat with Orisun Igbomina 102.1FM, Hon. Abiodun Ajayi noted that slums and crowded areas with poor sanitation are particularly at risk.
The grassroots politician explained that cholera is a highly contagious disease that causes severe diarrhea and can be life-threatening, adding that it poses a significant health burden in areas with poor water treatment and sanitation, and could impact Osun State.
“Cholera spreads through direct transmission by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, and indirect transmission due to poor sanitation and lack of handwashing. Symptoms of cholera include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, fever and sometimes collapse”, he said.
According to him, treatment options for cholera include rehydration using Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) for mild to moderate dehydration. Intravenous Fluids is used for severely dehydrated patients given only in medical facilities and supervised by medical personnel.
“To prevent cholera, residents of Boripe Local Government Area and Osun in general are urged to ensure safe drinking water by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water, and avoiding ice products made from untreated water.
“Maintaining proper sanitation by using toilets, safely disposing of faeces, and avoiding open defecation is crucial.
“Practising good hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and clean water regularly, especially before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet, is essential and following food safety guidelines”, Hon. Abiodun Ajayi advised.
He enjoined citizens to rely on the Osun State Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and accredited local health facilities for guidance, advice and updates on prevention, treatment and management.
While emphasising the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and taking proactive measures to prevent cholera outbreaks, the illustrious son of Iree town lauded the efforts of the political administration of Senator Ademola Adeleke to ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens.
“I urge everyone to adopt these preventive measures and report any suspected cases promptly to safeguard our communities”, he stated.
