HEALTH: THE DREADFUL OUTBREAK!

By Adedeji Eniola.

On June 9, 2024, the Lagos State Government declared the outbreak of a disease. As reported by the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) on June 12, 2024, 324 suspected cases have been reported in the state, including 15 people who died and 40 who were discharged.

WHAT IS THIS DISEASE?
Cholera is an infectious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food, leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration. It is mainly caused by consuming water or food contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium. The bacterium is typically found in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water. Outbreaks commonly occur in regions affected by natural disasters, overcrowded areas, or inadequate sanitation facilities. Cholera can quickly spread through communities if proper hygiene practices are not followed.
With another school session in progress and with students resuming back to their various hostels and place of abode, one must must take note of the following to prevent the spread of Cholera. But, to start with, what are the symptoms of cholera?

The SYMPTOMS of cholera can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:
• Diarrhea: The hallmark symptom of cholera is profuse watery diarrhea, also known as “rice-water” stools. The diarrhea is painless, odorless, and contains high levels of electrolytes.
• Vomiting: Individuals may experience persistent vomiting, which can lead to rapid fluid loss and dehydration.
• Dehydration: Cholera-induced diarrhea and vomiting can result in severe dehydration. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, excessive thirst, low urine output, and reduced skin elasticity.
• Muscle cramps: Intense muscle cramps, particularly in the legs and abdomen, may occur due to electrolyte imbalances caused by fluid loss.
• Rapid heart rate: Dehydration can lead to an increased heart rate, causing palpitations and a weak pulse.

PREVENTION
Prevention plays a vital role in controlling cholera outbreaks. Here are some preventive measures that can be taken:
• Access to clean water: Ensuring access to safe drinking water through improved water sources, filtration, and disinfection methods.
• Sanitation practices: Promoting proper sanitation facilities, including the use of latrines, hygienic waste disposal, and handwashing with soap.
• Awareness: Creating awareness platforms here in school about the importance of hygiene, safe food handling practices, and early recognition of cholera symptoms.
• Vaccination: In areas with a high risk of cholera, vaccination campaigns can be conducted to provide population-wide immunity and reduce the incidence of the disease. This can be done in partnership with the school’s medical hospital “Jaja”.

TREATMENT OF CHOLERA
Prompt treatment is essential to manage cholera effectively and minimize complications. The main treatment measures for cholera include the following:
• Rehydration: The primary goal of treatment is to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) or intravenous fluids are administered to restore hydration levels in mild to moderate cases.
• Hospitalization: Severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous fluid replacement.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotic therapy can help reduce the duration and severity of cholera symptoms. Commonly used antibiotics include doxycycline, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin.
• Prevention of further spread: Isolation of infected individuals, strict adherence to proper hygiene practices, and provision of safe drinking water and sanitation facilities are crucial to preventing the spread of cholera within communities.

In conclusion, prevention they say is better than cure, and that is why severe adherence to preventive measures such as access to clean water, improved sanitation, and health education can significantly reduce the burden of cholera amongst us students here in school. And so, as you are settling in, and adjusting to resume school activities, remember to keep your health in mind. Stay safe!