THE Kaduna State Ministry of Health has issued an urgent public health advisory following a recent increase in diphtheria cases across parts of the state, with children accounting for the majority of infections.
News Point Nigeria reports that the outbreak has prompted intensified efforts by the state government to contain the disease, while parents, caregivers, schools and community leaders have been urged to take immediate preventive measures to protect vulnerable children.
In a statement released on Saturday, the ministry explained that diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. According to the statement, the disease spreads through coughing, sneezing, close physical contact with infected persons, or the sharing of contaminated personal items.
The ministry warned that unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children remain at the greatest risk of developing severe complications, which could ultimately result in death.
Health authorities, therefore, urged residents to remain vigilant and watch out for symptoms such as sore throat, fever, chills, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, swelling of the neck—commonly referred to as “bull neck”—as well as a thick grey or white membrane covering the throat or tonsils.
The ministry stressed that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving survival rates and advised parents and caregivers to immediately take anyone displaying symptoms to the nearest health facility.
It also cautioned residents against self-medication or relying solely on traditional remedies for treatment.
As part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease, the ministry called on parents to ensure that their children receive all routine vaccinations. It further encouraged those who have missed scheduled immunisations to visit the nearest Primary Health Care (PHC) centre for free catch-up vaccination services.
Residents were equally advised to maintain proper hand hygiene, observe good cough etiquette and avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of the disease.
The Kaduna State Ministry of Health disclosed that it is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, development partners and health facilities to strengthen disease surveillance, provide treatment, expand immunisation and contain the outbreak.
The ministry appealed to members of the public to remain calm while adhering strictly to public health guidelines, emphasising that the prompt reporting of suspected cases and complete vaccination remain the most effective measures for preventing the spread of diphtheria.
“Together, we can stop diphtheria,” the ministry said, urging residents to seek immediate medical attention for anyone experiencing symptoms of the disease.
