By Zainab Bakare
The Lagos State Government has opened a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, in response to the cholera outbreak in the state.
The Public Health Emergency Operations Centre was set up to address and curb the increasing cholera cases in the state. Contained in a statement on the government’s website on Sunday, this plan was disclosed by the Commissioner of Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, while he spoke on steps to control the outbreak.
As of Saturday, the state Ministry of Health has confirmed 350 suspected cases, with 17 confirmed cases and 15 deaths.
The United Nations Children’s Fund has urged the state government to provide standard water supply across the local governments, as the primary cause of cholera is contaminated water.
Lafoucrier said, “Addressing the challenges of cholera outbreaks requires a deliberate focus of state policies to provide high-standard water and sanitation facilities, as well as strengthened healthcare systems capable of responding to the demand in times of outbreaks, and state-led educational campaigns on cholera prevention to protect children and the population at large.”
“To alleviate cholera outbreaks, a comprehensive approach is essential. Sustainable WASH infrastructure and strengthened health systems capable of anticipating epidemics, as well as effective community engagement strategies, are crucial to halt transmission.”