By Modupe Gbadeyanka
In a move to prevent the outbreak of cholera in public schools, the Oyo State government has rolled out some measures, advising head teachers to ensure food handlers follow strict hygiene practices to avert contamination.
The state government, through the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OyoSUBEB), said it was on top of its game to ensure public basic schools prioritise the health and safety of pupils.
The chairman of the agency, Mr Nureni Aderemi Adeniran, while instructing head teachers on steps to take to curb the spread of the disease, equally urged parents, guardians, and school authorities to adhere to safety guidelines.
He assured that the board would work with education secretaries, head teachers, and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance, stressing the importance of hand hygiene, recommending that children carry hand sanitisers and frequently wash their hands with soap and water, especially before meals and after using the restroom.
The OyoSUBEB chief also recommended that schools keep Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) available in school clinics to manage dehydration cases promptly and to notify the state emergency hotline, 615, immediately in case of any health emergencies or suspected cholera cases.
He noted that preventive measures, including comprehensive health talks on cholera prevention among learners and staff, and safe drinking water practices, would be conducted regularly.
Adedapo Adesanya 
Aduragbemi Omiyale