The Lagos State Commissioner for Health,
Dr. Jide Idris has disclosed that 45 cases of diarrhea disease has been
recorded in some communities in Isolo area of the State, with six
casualties already recorded.
He said 36 cases have been successfully
managed in various hospitals across the State while four people were
currently responding to treatment, but that unfortunately, six
casualties has been recorded so far.
According to him, the source of outbreak
has been traced to local consumption of Salad called Abacha, a staple
food of the residents of Isolo Local Government Area. “Some domestic
wells within the communities are also suspected. Sample of Abacha salad
and well water have been collected and sent to the Lagos State Drug
Quality Control Laboratory for analysis,” he said.
He said the disease usually present
clinically as nausea, profuse diarrhea, vomiting, fever, leg cramps, and
in severe cases leads to dehydration, coma or death. “The risk of
contracting the disease is mainly by poor water and environmental
sanitation, including open defecation.”
Dr. Jide called on Lagosians to imbibe
personal hygiene and other control measures instituted by the state
government. “Lagosians should ensure to wash their hands with soap and
water frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the rest room.
Boil water before drinking, especially if you are not sure of the source
of water.”
He also called on Lagosians to stop open
defecation, which he said has been linked to outbreak of cholera and
diarrhea in recent times. “We should also ensure provision of effective
and hygienic toilet facility in our communities.”
“The general public is also enjoined to
report any case with diarrhea and vomiting to the nearest health
facility or calling the following lines; 08037170614, 08052817243 and
08173577579,” he said.
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