…With fever symptoms, breathing difficulties, others.

…Has claimed some lives already.

by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

Kaduna State Government has alerted the general public on the outbreak of Diphtheria Disease in Kafanchan, in Jma’a LGA of Kaduna State.

Governor Sani of Kaduna State has already directed Ministry of Health to send emergency team to investigate cases and take immediate action, a statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, has revealed.

The Kaduna State Ministry of Health on Thursday, 20th July 2023, confirmed cases of the diphtheria disease in some communities in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area. 

The confirmation came after several reports were made about residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A and Kafanchan B wards, where lives have already been lost.

The exhibiting symptoms listed include: difficulty in breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.

“Upon learning about the unfortunate loss of lives in the affected communities, the governor immediately directed the Kaduna State Ministry of Health to send an emergency team to investigate these cases. 

“A preliminary report from the ministry revealed that the outbreak of diphtheria in Kafanchan had its first recorded case in the beginning of July, 2023,” it stated.

Governor Sani, while commending the health officials for their prompt response to the health emergency, urged them to continue to carry out their tasks diligently to ensure that the disease is contained and subsequently eradicated.

“Actions taken by the ministry so far include the movement of affected cases to adequately-equipped hospitals for proper management, active case searches, contact tracing and intensive community sensitization in all affected communities and surrounding areas.

“In line with these efforts, residents of Kaduna State are advised to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease and protect our communities. Residents should ensure that they:

• Wash their hands frequently with soap and water;
• Avvoid close contact with people who are sick;
• Cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing;
• Stay home from work or school, if they are sick;
• Stay active and walk everyday to boost immunity;
• Report any suspected cases of diphtheria in their surrounding communities.