THE OUTBREAK OF CHOLERA IN OKEIRA.
The recent outbreak of cholera in Okeira claimed several lives. It started like a small outbreak of infection which could be contained but it later took a frightening proportion leading to an epidemic. The epidemic lasted for two days but its effects are massive.
The cholera outbreak was caused by the unhealthy environment which is as a result of the unhygienic nature of the residents of Okeira. Almost everywhere, you will find heaps of refuse. Refuse bins are not readily emptied and every roadside is littered with the waste. It is a common sight to see mountainous dunghills covering up the major roads in the community. Furthermore, Okeira lacks good drinkable water. The residents depend on a stream where the whole community gets its water. The stream itself is not hygienic and clean enough for drinking as different people enter it to bath and fetch from the same source. Some of these people have sore on their legs and other forms of infections Defecation around the stream does not help matters as this stream becomes contaminated with virus and germs.
Similarly, Okeira lacks a good market where people can buy food items. The local market is located at the far end of the community which makes it difficult for people to trek down to buy things there. The residents, therefore, have to buy food items from hawkers who expose their goods to flies. Meat sellers go about without covering their wares.
The effects of the epidemic are colossal. Many lives are lost. According to the available medical report, about two hundred and fifty people died in two days as a result of the epidemic. Many able-bodied men, women and children lost their lives, thus causing anguish and sorrow in the community.
The state government and the Ikeja Local Government Council should come to the rescue of the residents of Okeira. My suggestion is that the government should launch a campaign to enlighten the residents on how to cultivate simple hygienic habits. Secondly, the Local government should ensure that the heaps of refuse are cleared on time. Thirdly, sanitary inspectors should be sent out to inspect homes in the community and ensure that the residents clean their surroundings regularly. Any resident who fails to maintain a clean environment should be made to pay a fine as punishment. Lastly, government hospitals should be built for the residents and the clinic in the community should be equipped to contain further outbreaks of such epidemic.
Caleb Farayola,
Okeira