Lagos State Commissioner of Health, Prof Akin Abayomi said that the cholera outbreak has resulted in 29 deaths out of 579 cases treated at various healthcare facilities, including general and private hospitals and primary healthcare centers,

He revealed this information while addressing the press in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, June 24.

Abayomi stated that most deaths occurred because patients arrived at hospitals too late to be effectively rehydrated, with some being brought in already deceased.

He reassured the public that the state government is managing the cholera outbreak effectively, similar to its approach during the COVID-19 crisis.

He noted that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is leading the response as the Incident Commander, with himself as the Deputy Incident Commander.

He emphasized that treatment for cholera patients remains free to reduce transmission and ensure timely care.

“The treatment is free in our hospital and healthcare facilities to slow down the transmission. We go out also to search for the patients and those that the patients might have been in contact with,” he said.

Abayomi noted that the outbreak, which began earlier this month, has slowed down in a reported number of cases as of June 22, 2024, with “only one case reported” as of yesterday.

Abayomi expressed relief that no cholera cases have been reported in schools since resumption, highlighting the effectiveness of the multi-agency approach in combating the outbreak.

He urged residents to maintain hygiene practices, such as drinking safe water and cooking food thoroughly.

The commissioner also emphasized the importance of regular hand washing to prevent further transmission of the disease.

END.