Six persons have been confirmed dead in a recent outbreak of Cholera disease in the Isolo area of Lagos state. Commissioner for Health in Lagos state, Jide Idris, at a press conference, disclosed that investigations so far showed that the main source of the outbreak is from the consumption of the African salad popularly called Abacha.
“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. Samples were collected from 15 cases and taken to the central public health laboratory, Yaba. There were no growths, however continuous culture yielded Vibro cholerae from 7 out of 15 samples. The Vibro cholera was later confirmed to be Ogawa strain.The report of the analysis revealed the presence of vibro cholerae, Salmonella species and E. Coli in abacha and one of the two well water samples.” Jimoh disclosed that out of the six cases, two were brought in dead. He stated that a total of 36 cases have been successfully managed in various hospitals across the state while four people are currently responding to treatment. Symptoms of Cholera disease includes nausea, profuse diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, leg cramps, and in severe cases leads to dehydration, coma or death. Speaking further, Jimoh said “The risk of contracting the disease is mainly by poor water and environmental sanitation, including open defecation. Lagosians should endeavour 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".
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