By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a public health advisory to prevent the spread of cholera, a preventable disease caused by poor sanitation and hygiene.
Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Environment, urges citizens to take the following preventive measures: Avoid consuming locally prepared drinks like kunu, zobo, fura da nono, koko, and fruit juice unless it is certain that the preparation was done in a hygienic and safe manner.
Ensure the use of clean and safe water. Water from suspicious sources should be well boiled or treated by adding one pack of chlorine solution to 100 parts.
Keep their environment clean always and dispose of waste properly at designated places.
Wash hands regularly with soap under running water, especially: After using the toilet, After cleaning a child who has gone to the toilet, Before preparing food, Before and after eating, After playing with animals
The government also directs States and Local Governments to:
Increase environmental health surveillance in places where food and drinks are sold nationwide, including markets, garages, schools, restaurants, stadia, religious and sporting event venues.
Collaborate with health authorities and stakeholders to prevent and control cholera.
The Minister notes that a recent situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) indicates a total of 1,159 suspected cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 30 deaths across 30 States. The most affected states, contributing 90% of the total cases, are Bayelsa, Lagos, Zamfara, Abia, Bauchi, Cross River, Ebonyi, Delta, and Katsina.
Arrangements have been made to support the most affected states with chlorine solution or tablets, water and food testing resources to avert further transmission across the country. The government is working to curtail the spread of cholera through various measures, including water and food testing, environmental sanitation campaigns, and household water chlorination.”