The National Biosafety Management Agency has urged the public to be cautious following the recent cholera epidemic in various Nigerian states.
Mrs. Gloria Ogbaki, NBMA’s Head of Information and Communications, said in a statement on Friday in Abuja that the Director-General of the NBMA, Dr. Agnes Asagbra, had stated that caution was necessary.
“Asagbra said Nigerians must exercise caution as Nigeria records 30 deaths and 1,141 suspected cases of the disease.
“As we approach the festive period of the Salah celebrations, it is of utmost importance that we collectively prioritise the health and safety of our communities.
“Cholera, a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or water, has been reported in Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos States.’’
Asagbra stated that the NBMA, in coordination with health authorities, was actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to limit the spread of the disease.
She also encouraged Nigerians to adopt alternative hygiene habits, such as boiling drinking water or using certified water purification technologies.
According to her, it is necessary to properly wash hands with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food.
The Director-General also asked Nigerians to constantly wash their hands with soap and water after using the toilet, to thoroughly cook their food, and to eat it while it was still hot.
She recommended Nigerians avoid raw foods, such as fruits and vegetables, unless they could be peeled or washed with safe water, and to keep the surroundings clean and properly dispose of waste to avoid infection.
She said, “NBMA urges all Nigerians to be vigilant and adhere to these hygiene practices to protect themselves and their loved ones from cholera.”
She urged Nigerians to stay alert and report any cases of cholera to the nearest hospital.
