Following the increase in common diseases owing to the rainy season, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has warned Nigerians to take immediate precautions.
There has been a surge in diseases like Malaria, Cold and Flu, Diarrhea, Hepatitis A, and Cholera which NOA observed is particularly affecting children due who just developing immune systems.
The agency therefore urged parents and caregivers to be vigilant in implementing preventive measures and seeking medical attention promptly when symptoms arise.
NOA highlighted that Malaria is transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito, while Cold and Flu are viral infections that can be prevented by washing hands frequently, urging them to avoid close contact with sick individuals, and getting annual flu vaccinations.
“Diarrhea, which can be caused by various infections, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can be prevented by practicing good hand hygiene, drinking clean water, and promoting breastfeeding for infants.
“Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease spread through contaminated food and water or direct contact with an infected person, and can be prevented by getting vaccinated against it,” NOA noted.
Speaking particularly on the outbreak of Cholera, which has been generating public concerns in recent time, the Agency said it is a bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated water or food.
“It is a water-borne disease. It causes acute watery diarrhea (watery stool) and vomiting, and if left untreated, it can lead to death within hours.
“Cholera can be prevented by making water safe by using reliable sources, boiling water before drinking, storing water in properly covered containers, and ensuring bottled water and pure water sachets are properly sealed before consumption,” it stated.
InsideBusinessNg has earlier reported that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on the cholera outbreak revealed a total of 882 suspected cases, including 16 deaths from 30 states, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 1.9 per cent.
The report shows children under the age of five are the most affected, followed by those aged 5-14 years. The gender distribution of the cases is nearly even, with 49 per cent males and 51 percent females.
Further statistical analysis also confirmed that Bayelsa State has been the hardest hit, accounting for 50 per cent of all suspected cases nationwide with 442 reported cases.
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