CHOLERA OUTBREAK: LAGOS HEALTH DISTRICT V WARNS ZONGO COMMUNITY AGAINST OPEN DEFECATION
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The Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District V, Dr. Oladapo Asiyanbi has issued a stern warning to residents of Zongo Community in Gbethrome, Badagry West LCDA, against the dangers of open defecation, which has been linked to the recent cholera outbreak in the area.
Dr. Asiyanbi gave this warning during a sensitization campaign on cholera outbreak, held with key community stakeholders in Zongo Community Gbethrome recently.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Asiyanbi emphasised the severe health risks associated with open defecation, noting that it significantly contributes to the spread of cholera. He urged residents to ensure that their homes have proper toilets with covers, as mandated by the Lagos State Government.
He revealed that the community has already recorded about 54 confirmed cases of cholera, with 14 resulting in death. These cases have been traced to the widespread practice of open defecation within the Zongo community.
The Permanent Secretary, who has directed Sanitarian Officers to inspect all buildings within the community, particularly those without proper toilet facilities, warned that any private toilet operating without a valid license will face legal action.
According to Asiyanbi “We can not return lost lives, but we can rebuild houses. “Any building without a toilet facility will be demolished because the Lagos State Government prioritises the health and safety of its residents.” He further stressed that there should be a minimum distance of 30 meters between toilets and houses or wells.
Dr. Asiyanbi described open defecation as a serious offence in Lagos State, explaining that cholera is often transmitted through flies from uncovered toilets, which contaminates food and water
He urged residents to take immediate action if anyone starts stooling or vomiting by rushing the person to the nearest Primary Health Centre for first aid. Keeping such patients at home could lead to death.
He also advised food vendors in the community to undergo health screenings at least twice a year at their local Primary Health Centres to ensure they are not carriers of cholera bacteria.
Also, speaking at the event, the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Amina Ahmad Bello enlightened the community about the nature of cholera. She explained that the disease is caused by bacteria found in dirty environments and contaminated water. It results in symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, and infected individuals should be taken to a healthcare centre immediately.
She clarified that cholera is not contagious but is primarily spread through contaminated food and water. Dr. Ahmad recommended boiling drinking water for at least 60 minutes, allowing it to cool in a covered container before consumption.
Also, at the event, Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Gbenu Joseph expressed his appreciation to the Lagos State Government, especially Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for the swift response during the outbreak. He also commended the medical and sanitation teams for their dedication.
However, Hon. Gbenu criticized some residents for their careless attitudes, which he said contributed to the outbreak. He used the opportunity to inform Dr. Asiyanbi about the newly completed Primary Health Centre in the community, which is set to be commissioned soon. He also appealed for the deployment of additional medical personnel to serve Zongo Community Gbethrome effectively.
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