On Monday, July 1, the World Health Organization (WHO) donated pharmaceuticals to combat a cholera outbreak at Kirikiri Prison, Lagos. Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, highlighted the state's ongoing efforts and the additional support during a recent update.
Abayomi mentioned that the state had supplied intravenous fluids, infection prevention materials, and other health consumables to Kirikiri Medium Prison. He added, “WHO has donated 10,000 doses of pharmaceuticals, aiding prevention strategies for around 3,200 inmates if required. Immediate water and sanitation issues have been addressed, with ongoing inspections at other correctional facilities.”
The commissioner traced the cholera outbreak in Lagos to unregulated street beverages and contaminated water, noting significant improvement in daily cases since the peak two weeks ago. He reported, “No new cholera-related deaths in the past 72 hours. The government is intensifying efforts to eliminate transmission, with interventions showing positive results.”
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Abayomi emphasized adherence to public health advice, prompt medical care for symptoms, and safety measures. He detailed the state's "One Health" approach, involving environmental health measures with the Lagos Water Corporation and sanitation agencies, including “widespread sanitation, borehole inspections, provision of safe drinking water, and stricter regulations on local beverage manufacturers.”
The commissioner reassured the public, expressing confidence in controlling the cholera spread through collaboration and vigilance from all stakeholders.
