The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Lagos Branch, has trained 60 emergency response volunteers to help curb the spread of cholera in local communities. The training, titled ‘Training of Volunteers on Risk Communication and Community Engagement for the Cholera Outbreak,’ took place on Wednesday in Lagos, with support from the British Red Cross.
Mrs. Adebola Kolawole, Chairman of the Lagos Branch, shared that 20 volunteers were selected from each of three local government areas: Kosofe, Eti-Osa, and Lagos Island, where cholera is most prevalent.
These trained volunteers will spend 20 days engaging with community members in these areas to raise awareness about cholera prevention. Kolawole stated, “This intervention is to sensitise our volunteers on what they need to know about cholera. They will go into public places – marketplaces, churches, and mosques – and talk to them about how to prevent more outbreaks. They will provide thorough enlightenment, sensitise, and engage people one-on-one on hygiene.”
Additionally, the volunteers will educate community members about the dangers of buying food from roadsides and consuming drinks not approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
Mr. Olakunle Lasisi, the branch Secretary, emphasized that the training aims to influence behavioral changes, prevent misinformation, and help communities make informed health decisions. “The changes will lead to better ways of living and guard against the spread of cholera and other diseases,” he added.
Mr. Badejo Olusegun, a Health Educator from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of maintaining safe and hygienic water sources and being cautious about where food is purchased. He advised avoiding exposed meat or fish and using public toilets to prevent open defecation.
Training participants urged the state government to improve the drinking water sources in affected communities and enforce hand-washing habits in schools to prevent the spread of cholera.
Leave a Reply