Ogun State Takes Bold Steps to Curb Cholera Epidemic

Ogun State Takes Bold Steps to Curb Cholera Epidemic

In response to the recent cholera outbreak, the Ogun State government has announced a series of proactive measures to effectively contain and mitigate the spread of the disease. With 25 reported cases and one death across seven local government areas—Ado-Odo/Ota, Remo North, Odeda, Sagamu, Ijebu-North, Ewekoro, and Obafemi-Owode—the government is prioritizing swift and comprehensive action.

Addressing the public at a press conference at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, alongside Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya outlined the state's robust response plan. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders, has activated the Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate the response.

Key actions include:

1. *Activation of Emergency Operations Centre*: Ensuring each Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA) involved in the response carries out its responsibilities effectively.

2. *Environmental Sanitation and Hygiene Campaigns* Activities aimed at curbing open defecation and improving overall environmental hygiene are being intensified by the waste and environmental sanitation departments at both the state and local government levels.

3. *Provision of Free Treatment*: Medication and essential consumables have been repositioned at local government areas and strategic health facilities, ensuring free, quality treatment in all government health facilities.

4. *Public Awareness and Risk Communication*: Dissemination of cholera prevention materials through various media platforms, with the Ministry of Information and the risk communication pillar actively engaging the public on good hygiene and sanitation practices.

5. *Testing and Ensuring Safe Water Supply*: The Ministry of Environment has deployed officials with testing kits to ensure the safety of boreholes and other water sources, particularly those producing sachet water. Public toilets are also being constructed to discourage open defecation.

6. *Enhanced Water Treatment and Supply*: The Ogun State Water Corporation has increased water treatment capacity, boosting supply from 82 million litres to 162 million litres to ensure access to potable water in Abeokuta and surrounding areas.

Dr. Coker highlighted the importance of personal hygiene, proper food handling, and avoiding open defecation to prevent the spread of cholera. She also emphasized the state's preparedness and vigilance in protecting residents' health, noting support from the federal government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in terms of technical assistance and protective gear for health officials.

Residents experiencing symptoms, such as passing watery stool more than twice within eight hours, are urged to visit government health facilities or call emergency numbers 08038642812, 07034214893, and 08084250881 for prompt medical attention.

Commissioner Oresanya added that efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety of water sources and enhance public sanitation facilities. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is monitoring schools closely, encouraging handwashing, and maintaining clean environments.

Engr (Mrs.) Muinat Jaji, General Manager of the Ogun State Water Corporation, stated that the government has procured adequate chemicals for water treatment in major waterworks across the state. Additionally, the water supply has been significantly increased to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.

In a collaborative effort, private hospital owners and emergency services are also participating in the state's response to the cholera outbreak. By working together, Ogun State aims to minimize the impact of the outbreak and protect the health of its residents.

Through these concerted efforts, Ogun State is taking decisive action to safeguard public health and prevent the further spread of cholera.

*Tayo Mabeweje*

*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*