Diphtheria Alert in Edo: Three Deaths, Six Confirmed Cases Spark Health Emergency
Edo State is grappling with a concerning outbreak of diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, which has tragically claimed three lives and led to six confirmed cases. The state's Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, made this grim announcement over the weekend in Benin City, confirming that hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert.
The Numbers and the Spread:
Dr. Oshiomhole revealed that since the outbreak was officially declared, the state has recorded 15 suspected cases. Out of these, six have been confirmed through testing, and tragically, three individuals have succumbed to the disease. The confirmed cases are not localized but are spread across six different local government areas within the state, underscoring the need for widespread vigilance.
Urgent Response and Vaccination Drive:
In response to the escalating situation, the Edo State Government is implementing a multi-pronged approach:
* Vaccine Deployment: Governor Monday Okpebholo is personally overseeing efforts to contain the spread. The Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has provided 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines, with Governor Okpebholo securing an additional 20 doses from neighboring Delta State.
* Targeted Vaccination Campaign: A forthcoming vaccination campaign will specifically target children aged 5 to 14. This is crucial as Dr. Oshiomhole noted that some teenagers previously vaccinated had still contracted the disease, highlighting the importance of broader and potentially booster coverage.
* Hospital Preparedness: Hospitals, particularly the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) where affected patients are receiving care, have been placed on "high alert." Critical medical supplies, including intravenous fluids, beds, oxygen cylinders, and personal protective equipment, have been donated to strengthen their capacity to manage cases.
* Public Awareness: The government is intensifying public sensitization campaigns across various media platforms, educating residents on the symptoms, preventive measures, and the critical importance of early medical intervention.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the nose and throat, forming a thick, gray membrane that can make it difficult to breathe and swallow. The bacteria can also produce a toxin that can damage organs like the heart and nerves, leading to severe complications or even death.
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
* Sore throat
* Fever
* Swollen glands (enlarged lymph nodes) in the neck (often described as "bull neck")
* Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
* Nasal discharge
* Weakness or fatigue
Prevention is Key:
Diphtheria is largely preventable through vaccination. The diphtheria vaccine is typically administered as part of a combination vaccine (e.g., DTaP), with multiple doses and booster shots needed to build and sustain immunity.
Call for Action:
Edo State's Commissioner for Health has urged parents, school authorities, and all residents to remain calm but vigilant. They are advised to:
* Closely monitor children and family members for any signs of illness.
* Seek immediate medical care at the nearest healthcare facility if symptoms are observed.
* Cooperate fully with health officials during ongoing vaccination and awareness campaigns.
This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage within communities to prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
