Ogun Enlighten Citizens About Cholera Outbreak, Others
The Ogun State Agency for Rural Water Supply and Sanitation initiates an awareness drive to avert cholera and other water-borne diseases.
Approximately four months ago, the state witnessed a Cholera outbreak impacting more than 200 individuals and resulting in the demise of at least 10.
Mrs Olufemi Ilori-Oduntan, the Commissioner for Rural Development in the State, emphasized the need for awareness during the dry season in Surulere community, Agbo-Afoju, Sabo, in Abeokuta North Local Government Area, to address the recurring issue of residents resorting to unreliable water sources as well levels in wells decrease.
According to a statement on Thursday, Ilori-Oduntan was quoted to have said that “proper hygienic practices and attitudinal change are prerequisites for a disease-free society. People in this community have to be more proactive with their hygiene practices because the government has declared zero tolerance on endemic diseases in the state”.
Represented by the Programme Manager, RUWATSAN, Mr Sola Ogunbo, the commissioner advised the people to constantly clear drainages, desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse and ensure that every household has toilets, noting that ailments associated with unhygienic practices were numerous, including typhoid, dysentery and so on.
Responding, the Chairman, of Ilupeju Oke-Odo Community Development Council, Dr. Munir Adesola, lauded the agency for the programme, saying the campaign would encourage people to embrace a hygienic lifestyle, calling on the government to make it a continuous exercise and reach out to other communities across the state.
Highlights of the event were disinfection of selected water sources in the communities, demonstration of hand washing, method of water purification and treatment, as well as distribution of wash materials to representatives of over 50 Community Development Associations.