The Ekiti State Government has issued a warning to residents to be vigilant for cholera in their communities.Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the Commissioner for Health, expressed concern about the cholera outbreak in Lagos State within the same geopolitical zone.
He urged the general public in Ekiti to stay alert and take necessary precautions outlined in the advisory.Cholera is a disease transmitted through contaminated food and water, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Its symptoms include sudden onset of severe watery diarrhea (known as rice water stools), often accompanied by vomiting and fever.
While cholera can be fatal if untreated, early detection allows for successful treatment with oral rehydration solution (ORS) and appropriate antibiotics.Prevention measures include access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and hygiene practices like frequent handwashing.
Avoiding raw foods, especially from street vendors, and ensuring food safety are also recommended.Residents are advised to use proper toilet facilities, maintain clean sanitation practices, and stay updated with vaccinations against diarrheal diseases.
It is important to stay hydrated, especially during cholera outbreaks, and keep surroundings clean to prevent the spread of the disease.
The state has an operational readiness strategy, including an Incident Management System (IMS) and Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) in place to prevent and manage cholera outbreaks.This involves surveillance, contact tracing, community engagement, and adherence to infection prevention and control measures.
A multisectoral approach involving various government agencies, health institutions, and development partners is being employed to combat the spread of cholera.Promoting good hygiene practices and community-wide preventive measures are crucial in fighting cholera and maintaining public health.
