The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has issued a public warning regarding a cholera outbreak that has claimed 30 lives and resulted in 1,141 suspected cases across Nigeria.
This information was disclosed by the agency’s Director General, Dr. Agnes Asagbra, in a statement made available to Africa Health Report (AHR) on Friday.
“As we approach the festive period of the Sallah celebrations, it is of utmost importance that we collectively prioritise the health and safety of our communities,” Dr. Asagbra stated.
“Cholera cases have been reported in Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos states. Dr. Asagbra assured that the NBMA, in collaboration with health authorities, is actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to contain the spread of the disease.
The NBMA emphasized the importance of hygiene practices to prevent cholera transmission. Dr. Asagbra advised Nigerians to adopt various preventive measures, including:
– 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.
– Keeping the environment clean and disposing of waste properly to prevent contamination.
“NBMA urges all Nigerians to be vigilant and adhere to these 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,” Asagbra added.
