The Lagos State Government, through Health District III, has intensified its cholera prevention campaign across major markets in Epe and surrounding local government areas to curb outbreaks during the rainy season.
Epe Insights reports that the sensitisation exercise was held at Aiyetoro Market in Epe, New Garage Market in Eti-Osa, and Idiorogbo Market (Kara) in Ibeju-Lekki, targeting traders and residents.
The outreach formed part of the Monday to Wednesday Market Storm Advocacy programme focused on public health education and disease prevention.
Speaking during the campaign, the Permanent Secretary, Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, said market traders were prioritized due to their daily interaction with large numbers of people.
She explained that early detection and prompt referral of suspected cases remain critical in preventing the spread of cholera and other infectious diseases.
Dr. Adeleke emphasized that the government remains committed to proactive community engagement to protect public health across Epe and other divisions.
She noted that preventing cholera requires shared responsibility between government, traders, and residents.
According to her, clean markets and quick response to symptoms can significantly reduce fatalities and outbreaks.
The Director of Health Education Services, Mr. Sulaiman Adeboyega, educated participants on the causes and transmission of cholera.
He explained that the disease is commonly spread through contaminated water, poor hygiene practices, and unsafe food handling.
Mr. Adeboyega also demonstrated practical preventive measures to traders during the sensitisation exercise.
He advised residents to boil or properly treat drinking water before consumption to reduce infection risks.
He further encouraged regular handwashing with soap and clean water, especially before handling food or money.
Traders were also urged to cover food properly and maintain clean surroundings within market environments.
Waste disposal and drainage hygiene were highlighted as key factors in preventing outbreaks.
Participants were informed about available Primary Health Care Centres across Epe, Eti-Osa, and Ibeju-Lekki for immediate referral of suspected cases.
Health authorities urged residents to report symptoms such as acute watery diarrhoea promptly for medical attention.
The Lagos Health District III team also called on health workers to maintain active surveillance systems and report any suspected clusters without delay.
Officials stressed that early reporting and quick response remain essential tools in preventing large-scale outbreaks.
In Epe, traders expressed appreciation for the sensitisation exercise, noting that it increased their awareness of hygiene practices and disease prevention.
The campaign reinforced ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to strengthen public health systems and reduce preventable diseases in coastal and market communities.
Authorities reaffirmed that similar outreach programmes will continue across Epe Division to ensure sustained awareness and compliance.
