The Osun State Government has advised residents to avoid consuming unhygienic food to prevent cholera outbreaks in the state.
The state Governor, Ademola Adeleke, gave the advice on Saturday during the commissioning of primary health centres and borehole water projects implemented by the state's community and social development agency in Odo-Oba community, Iwo area of the state.
In June, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced that the country recorded 53 deaths and 1,528 suspected cases of cholera in 107 local government areas (LGAs) in 31 states.
The deaths represent a case fatality rate of 3.5 percent since the beginning of 2024.
During the commissioning, Mr. Adeleke urged residents to maintain environmental hygiene, wash their hands with soap and water and thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits before consuming them.
“Before I end my speech, I want to remind everyone that the cholera outbreak is still present in the country, so we must ensure that we maintain personal and environmental hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking them to keep cholera at bay,” he said.
The governor also urged residents to visit health centers for immediate medical attention if they feel discomfort in their bodies.
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“Please go to the hospital or health centre immediately if you feel any discomfort in your body. Don’t worry,” he added.
Mr. Adeleke stressed that his administration will prioritize the state's health system.
“Factors such as clean drinking water, health care services, safe communities and well-maintained roads have been shown to contribute to good health, especially for women, infants and children. All of these factors are interrelated with people’s health.
“That is why the present administration is embarking on systematic interventions, taking practical steps and a pragmatic approach to provide social infrastructure facilities that will make life more meaningful and impact public health outcomes,” the governor added.
Mr. Adeleke advised residents to maintain primary health centres and drinking water projects.
“I must especially appreciate the good work being done by the Osun CSDA to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach all corners of the state. I assure the agency of the continued support of the state government.”
Microprojects
The Director General of Osun CSDA, Aderonke Abokede, said about 31 micro projects were selected for funding in the Iwo area of the state.
Ms Abokede said the projects were funded by the state's social and development agency under Osun CARES, a World Bank intervention programme.
He expressed his gratitude to the governor for making the fund available to the agency and urged residents to maintain the facilities.