As schools reopen after the mid-term break in Lagos State, the government is urging parents to be vigilant about their children’s health in light of a recent cholera outbreak.
Parents are advised to monitor their children daily for symptoms of cholera, including frequent watery stool and vomiting. If any signs are observed, parents are instructed to keep their children at home and seek medical assistance promptly.
The government has issued a public health advisory emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to protect children from this deadly disease.
The Ministry of Health has reported a significant number of suspected and confirmed cases of cholera in various areas of the state.
It is crucial for parents, guardians, and school authorities to follow the recommended guidelines to prevent further spread of the disease.
Cholera is a highly contagious illness that can be transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Symptoms include sudden and severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
Hand hygiene, particularly regular handwashing with soap, is essential in preventing the spread of the disease.
Parents are encouraged to ensure that their children practice good hand hygiene and carry hand sanitizers to school.
The public health advisory partly read, “Ensure that all food handlers follow strict hygiene practices to prevent contamination and spread of diseases.
” Ensure that Oral Rehydration Salts are available at school clinics or bays to manage dehydration cases promptly.
“Schools should notify the emergency hotlines immediately in case of any health emergencies or suspected cholera cases: 08023169485, 08137412348, or 767/112.”
The Lagos State Government has advised parents to maintain open communication with their children’s schools to receive updates on health guidelines and to promptly report any health concerns to the school.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, has ensured that the state will implement Infection Prevention and Control measures in schools to prevent the further spread of cholera.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Alli-Balogun urged schools to contact the designated hotlines immediately if they suspect any cholera cases or other health emergencies.
He stated ,“The goal of IPC in schools is to minimise the risk of infectious disease outbreaks in the school community and ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for students, teachers, and other members of staff.
“As primary and secondary schools in Lagos resume tomorrow from the midterm and Sallah break, the state government urges parents, guardians, and school authorities to adhere to precautionary measures.
“These include hand hygiene – handwashing with soap and water before meals and after using the restroom—cleaning and disinfection, health screening and communication, daily health checks, and physical distancing.”
He further highlighted that the measures included vaccination.
“Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date and encourage a balanced diet to boost your child’s immune system,” he mentioned.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, has urged school management to ensure that food handlers adhere to strict hygiene practices to prevent contamination and the spread of diseases.
He emphasized the importance of having oral rehydration salts readily available in school clinics to promptly treat dehydration cases and providing handwashing facilities to promote good hygiene practices.
“The WASH facilities in washroom exits, food preparation areas, the entrance of classes, the entrance of canteens/halls and at the exit to toilet facilities must be functional,” he added.
Alli-Balogun advised students to stay safe and be vigilant.
“Together, we shall create a safe and healthy environment for our children as they return to their educational activities,” he pinpointed.
