The Lagos State Government has linked a recent cholera outbreak in the state to an unregistered tiger nut drink. The outbreak has affected Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, and Kosofe, with hospitals in those locations reporting the highest number of cases in Lagos state. The government directly assessed the area and found that a common factor may be a tiger nut drink sold in the area.
In Nigeria, any commercial packaged food must be registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Authorities were sent out to locate the drink and test samples for cholera, finding it to have Vibrio cholera subtype 01, the most infectious and aggressive type.
The Lagos State Government has urged residents to practice good hygiene and ensure their consumption items are registered with the appropriate government agencies.
In this interview, Dr. (Mrs) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Health Matters, explains more about the Cholera Outbreak and their findings in Lagos State.
The Interview
Q What caused the recent cholera outbreak in Lagos State?
Ans Cholera cases increased between June 10-11, 2024, due to the rainy season, poor sanitation, and contaminated water. The worst-hit areas are Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti-Osa. Prevention campaigns have since reduced cases.
Q Why did cholera spike in certain areas?
Ans An investigation in Eti-Osa revealed that contaminated tiger nut drinks are a common factor. The drinks were not registered with NAFDAC. We tested stool samples and confirmed the presence of Vibrio cholera subtype 01. Cases in Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, and Kosofe led to hospital alerts and prompt action from health officials.
Q What is the current death toll?
Ans As of Thursday, fatalities increased to 21. New cases emerged after the Ileyah celebrations, with some individuals dying before reaching the hospital due to delayed medical attention.
Q What symptoms should residents watch for?
Ans Symptoms include abdominal pain, watery diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps, rapid heart rate, and fatigue. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
Q How quickly do symptoms appear, and how is cholera diagnosed?
Ans Symptoms can appear within hours to five days after consuming contaminated food or water. Diagnosis requires stool samples and rapid diagnostic tests. Immediate rehydration is crucial, and oral rehydration solutions are recommended for those who can’t reach a hospital promptly.
Q How has the outbreak affected daily life in Lagos?
Ans Awareness campaigns have led to increased caution among residents. The sale of unregistered beverages like tiger nut drinks has stopped. The NCDC is monitoring the situation nationwide, as cases have spread to other states due to travel during festivities.
Q What are the implications if an emergency is declared?
Ans An emergency hasn’t been declared yet in Lagos. The NCDC is monitoring trends and collaborating with various ministries and organizations to contain the spread. Schools and daily activities continue as usual, but teachers are vigilant for symptoms.
Q Are there collaborations with health organizations?
Ans Yes, UNICEF, the Red Cross, and WHO are providing support. The situation is monitored daily, and treatment for suspected cholera cases in public hospitals is free to encourage prompt medical care.
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I have always encouraged people to stop buying drinks or juices from the public especially those of them that have not gone through the boiling process like tigernut drinks and smoothies. Do them in your home. Some of these sellers use untreated well, borehole water, streams, etc.
I pray the g0vernment will be able to curb the spread so that we don’t g3t all sorts of vaccines into the country.