The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, gave an update on Sunday regarding a cholera outbreak at Kirikiri Medium Security Prison.
He mentioned that swift medical and environmental interventions, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), have been effective.
According to News Central, 25 inmates at the prison have been seriously affected by gastroenteritis associated with cholera.
Abayomi stated that immediate actions were taken, including administering intravenous fluids and providing infection prevention supplies to the prison.
He confirmed that WHO donated 10,000 doses of medication to aid health efforts for approximately 3,200 inmates.
Abayomi also addressed water and sanitation concerns at the prison and noted ongoing inspections of other correctional facilities in Lagos.
Earlier reports indicated that the initial outbreak stemmed from unregulated street beverages and contaminated water sources. Environmental assessments confirmed the presence of cholera-causing bacteria in these drinks, which lacked accreditation from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Efforts are underway to locate and shut down illicit beverage production sites without NAFDAC approval.
The Environmental Health Directorate plans to seal these locations and apprehend individuals involved in the illegal manufacturing or distribution of these beverages.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of public safety and continuous vigilance to prevent further outbreaks in Lagos State.
