In a proactive move to prevent the spread of Cholera within school communities, the Ogun State Government has mandated school heads to implement comprehensive health and safety measures.
This directive comes as schools resume from the mid-term break and the Eid-el-kabir holiday on Wednesday, 19th June, 2024.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, has outlined a series of preventive measures aimed at curbing the disease.
These include comprehensive health talks on Cholera prevention for both learners and staff, focusing on symptoms, transmission routes, hand hygiene, and safe drinking water practices.
Schools are also required to ensure the availability of clean water and soap for hand washing, promote regular handwashing, and provide hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.
Regular inspection and maintenance of water sources within school premises are also mandated to ensure safe drinking water.
Additionally, the consumption of only boiled or chlorinated water and the avoidance of raw or unwashed fruits and vegetables are encouraged.
Schools are also tasked with maintaining clean and hygienic environments, including proper waste disposal and toilet cleaning.
Collaboration with local health authorities and adherence to their guidelines for Cholera prevention and control measures are emphasized.
School food vendors are required to provide letters from health facilities certifying their fitness for the job, and designated Health Officers within schools are to monitor learners and staff for any symptoms of Cholera and report suspected cases promptly.
These stringent measures reflect Ogun State's commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of its school communities during this critical period.