18/06/2024
Earlier before now I saw in the media about the cholera outbreaks in Lagos state Nigeria and I said I was going to contribute my part in the way I could, towards proffering solutions and saving the lives of our people who are endangered. Not until a friend of mine in Lagos called me today and told me of the constant increase in cases.
So what exactly is cholera?
Cholera is a potentially deadly disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It has been a significant public health issue for centuries. Characterized by severe diarrhoea and dehydration. Cholera can be fatal within hours if left untreated. However, we need to know that understanding its causes, symptoms, and prevention is of utmost importance for controlling the outbreaks and saving lives of our people in Nigeria.
Here are the causes:
Just like we have always complained about clean water and dirt-free food, cholera spreads through contaminated water and food. The primary source of infection is typically water contaminated with faeces from an infected person. Poor sanitation, inadequate water treatment, and lack of proper hygiene practices are significant contributors to the spread of cholera, especially in areas with limited resources and infrastructure.
The first time I saw a video of a place in Lagos called Makoko, one thing that came to my mind was, where do these people get water? Where are their bathroom and toilets? Because such places can influence the outbreak of cholera.
So, when a person consumes contaminated water or food, the cholera bacteria release a toxin in the intestines. This toxin causes the cells in the intestines to release large amounts of water, leading to severe diarrhoea and rapid loss of fluids and electrolytes.
Now here are the symptoms:
Cholera symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually appear within two hours to five days after infection. The most common symptoms include:
Severe Diarrhea: A sudden onset of watery diarrhoea, often described as "rice-water stools" due to its appearance.
Dehydration: Rapid loss of body fluids can lead to dehydration, which is characterized by dry mouth, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, and extreme thirst.
Vomiting: This can occur alongside diarrhoea and contribute to fluid loss.
Muscle Cramps: Caused by the loss of electrolytes.
Shock: In severe cases, rapid dehydration can lead to shock and, if untreated, death.
Prevention:
Preventing cholera involves a combination of clean water, improved sanitation, and proper hygiene practices. I will suggest that the government should intervene for those in Makoko and other rural communities in Lagos and Nigeria at large.
Access to Clean Water: Ensuring a safe water supply through treatment and proper storage.
Sanitation: Proper disposal of human waste and improved sanitation facilities to prevent contamination.
Hygiene: Handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food.
Vaccination: Oral cholera vaccines are available and can provide protection during these outbreaks and for individuals travelling to high-risk areas.
In conclusion, we all know that cholera is a preventable and treatable disease, but it continues to affect millions of people worldwide, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods is necessary for controlling and eventually eliminating the disease. Africare Health Network is committed to delivering sustained prevention measures while we call on the Nigerian government and Lagos state government to improve living conditions and provide good water for the citizens. With these, we can make significant efforts toward a cholera-free world.
