As death toll rises on the recent issue of cholera outbreak in Nigeria, the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has urged citizens to exercise caution and prioritize their health and safety.
According to the NBMA, ten states, including Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos have been reported to have rising cases of this disease.
The agency’s Director-General, Dr. Agnes Asagbra, emphasized the need for vigilance, especially during the upcoming festive period.
Cholera is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated food or water.
To combat the spread of the disease, NBMA, in collaboration with health authorities, is actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to contain the outbreak.
The agency advises citizens to adopt various hygiene practices, including:
– Boiling drinking water or using certified water purification methods.
– Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food.
– Washing hands with soap and water 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.
Dr. Asagbra urged Nigerians to be vigilant and adhere to these hygiene practices to protect themselves and their loved ones from cholera. She also encouraged citizens to report any suspected cases of cholera to the nearest hospital immediately.
The NBMA’s warning comes as the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported 1,141 cholera cases across 30 states
