The National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has issued a public advisory urging vigilance in response to a cholera outbreak affecting several states across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, the NBMA’s Head of Information and Communications, Mrs. Gloria Ogbaki, conveyed remarks from the Director-General, Dr. Agnes Asagbra, highlighting the need for heightened caution. Dr. Asagbra emphasized the urgency of the situation as the country grapples with 30 deaths and 1,141 suspected cases of cholera.
“As we approach the festive Salah period, prioritizing the health and safety of our communities is paramount,” Dr. Asagbra stated. Cholera, a severe bacterial infection resulting from consuming contaminated food or water, has been reported in several states including Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos.
The NBMA, in conjunction with health authorities, is actively monitoring the outbreak and implementing strategies to curb its spread. Dr. Asagbra urged Nigerians to adopt essential hygiene practices such as boiling drinking water or using certified water purification methods. She stressed the importance of washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, particularly before eating or preparing food.
Additionally, the Director-General advised that hands should be washed after using the toilet, and that food should be cooked thoroughly and consumed while hot. She recommended avoiding raw foods like fruits and vegetables unless they can be peeled or washed with safe water. Maintaining a clean environment and proper waste disposal are also crucial 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,” Dr. Asagbra reiterated. She called on the public to remain alert and promptly report any cholera cases to the nearest hospital.