Edo State health authorities have reported three deaths and six confirmed cases of diphtheria, raising concerns over the spread of the highly contagious bacterial infection.
The state government has intensified surveillance and public health measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.
Diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*, primarily affects the throat and nose, leading to severe breathing difficulties, heart failure, or paralysis if untreated.
The recent cases in Edo highlight gaps in immunisation coverage, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Health officials suspect that low vaccination rates and delayed medical intervention contributed to the fatalities.
The state’s Ministry of Health has activated emergency response protocols, including contact tracing, isolation of infected individuals, and public sensitisation campaigns.
Residents have been urged to ensure their children receive the pentavalent vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, and *Haemophilus influenzae* type b. Health workers are also conducting community outreach programs to identify and vaccinate unimmunized children.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has been notified, and collaboration is underway to provide additional medical supplies and personnel support. Experts warn that without swift action, the outbreak could spread to neighbouring states, especially in areas with poor healthcare access.
This incident underscores the critical need for improved routine immunisation and public awareness in Nigeria. While diphtheria is rare in countries with high vaccination rates, outbreaks in Nigeria reflect systemic challenges in healthcare delivery. Authorities urge parents to adhere to vaccination schedules and seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and swollen neck glands.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
