Cholera Outbreak: Agency urge citizens to exercise caution
By Zeniat Abubakar Abuja
The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) in has called on the general public to exercise caution over the recent cholera outbreak in some states across Nigeria.
The Director General of NBMA, Dr Agnes Asabgra disclosed this in a statement in Abuja the nation’s capital.
“The general public must exercise caution as Nigeria records 30 deaths, and 1,141 suspected cases from the disease. It is of utmost importance that we collectively prioritize the health and safety of our communities.” She said.
Dr Asagbra noted that the NBMA, in collaboration with health authorities, is monitoring the situation and implementing measures to contain the spread of the disease.
She also called on Nigerians to imbibe various hygiene practices.
“Boiling drinking water or using certified water purification methods, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the toilet, cooking food thoroughly and consuming it while hot, avoiding raw foods such as fruits and vegetables unless they can be peeled or washed with safe water and keeping the environment clean while disposing of waste properly to prevent contamination.” She explained.
Dr Asagbra also urged Nigerians to be vigilant and adhere to hygiene practices to protect themselves and their loved ones from cholera.
“We also encourage community leaders and health workers to disseminate this information and assist in educating the public about preventive measures.” She said
She called on Nigerians to be alert and report any case of cholera to the nearest hospital.
“You or anyone you know exhibits symptoms of cholera, which include severe diarrhea, dehydration, and vomiting, seek urgent medical attention at the nearest hospital, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.” She added.
The Director General Dr Agnes Asabgra further reiterated the thae NBMA commitment to safeguarding the health of the Nigerian people.
Cholera, a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or water, has been reported in Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos States.
