The recent cholera outbreak in some parts of the country has sparked concern among Nigerians, prompting Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide (Odidiomo) a federal lawmaker representing the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West federal constituency, to sensitize his constituents on the deadly disease.
In a statement issued in Ibadan by Tolu Mustapha, Special Adviser Media and Public Affairs to Hon. Olajide, the two term PDP federal lawmaker, emphasized the need for Nigerians to prioritise public health and hygiene to prevent the spread of cholera.
Odidiomo, in the statement, noted that the disease is caused by the bacterium, Vibrio Cholerae, which is often found in contaminated food, water, and human faeces.
The lawmaker emphasised the importance of community engagement in combating cholera, urging community leaders and traditional rulers to sensitize their subjects on the dangers of the disease and the need for good hygiene practices.
He reiterated that cholera is a preventable disease, and with collective efforts, Nigerians can stay safe and healthy.
While urging Nigerians to take responsibility for their health and well-being by prioritizing public health and hygiene, Hon. Olajide (Odidiomo) stressed that prevention is key in combating cholera and urged Nigerians to avoid drinking untreated water from wells, rivers, or lakes but instead, opt for boiled or chlorinated water.
Frequently, wash their hands with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
Keep their environment clean, and avoid open defecation.
Steer clear of raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and vegetables that may be contaminated with the cholera bacterium and seek immediate medical attention where symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps occur.
Similarly, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide commended the federal and state governments for their prompt response to the cholera outbreak and promised to complement their efforts in terms of providing clean water, sanitation, and healthcare facilities.
REPORTERS AT LARGE earlier reported the United Nations Agency said about 195,00 cholera cases have been reported in the five regions between January and May, with the Eastern Mediterranean Region reporting the highest number of cases of more than 98,000 cases from seven countries.
Africa has the second-highest cases, with 92,789 cases from 14 countries. A distant margin from what was found in America, where about 3700 cases from one country were recorded as the third highest from an affected region.