DIPHTHERIA OUTBREAK IN EDO STATE: 3 DEATHS RECORDED.
The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, has confirmed three deaths from diphtheria in the state.
According to Dr. Oshiomhole, 15 suspected cases have been recorded, with six confirmed cases across six local government areas.
The commissioner assured residents that the situation is being managed effectively and remains under control.
The state government has taken steps to strengthen its response to the outbreak. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has provided 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines, while the Edo State Governor secured an additional 20 doses from neighboring Delta State.
The state government has also donated critical medical supplies to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, where affected patients are receiving care.
Dr. Oshiomhole urged parents to prioritize immunization for their children, noting that diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease.
He stated that a forthcoming vaccination campaign will target children aged 5 to 14 and also advised the public to maintain clean surroundings, observe personal hygiene, and practice physical distancing to minimize the risk of infection.
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