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Tragically, a total of 10 individuals have lost their lives as a result of an outbreak encompassing 91 suspected cases of diphtheria spanning 14 local government areas within Jigawa State.
The State Ministry of Health confirmed this information to journalists during a press briefing in Dutse on Sunday.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Salisu Mu’azu, has reported that two cases have been officially confirmed in the Kazaure and Jahun local government areas. Furthermore, several samples have been dispatched to Abuja for further confirmation. Dr. Mu’azu stated, “To date, we have confirmed two cases in both Kazaure and Jahun local government areas, with additional samples forwarded to Abuja for verification.”
Mu’azu emphasized that the current outbreak is particularly alarming due to its occurrence in regions with a history of inadequate routine immunization against the epidemic.
He stated that the ministry promptly initiated an investigation, collecting vital information and data from the affected areas. They swiftly informed the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to coordinate further actions.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, he stated, “The state government is actively preparing to administer vaccines as soon as they become available.” Mu’azu also attributed the outbreak to disruptions in healthcare services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, explaining that the suspension of routine immunization during that time presented a significant challenge.
In response, the NPHCDA and NCDC have been diligently monitoring the situation and working closely with the state ministry to ensure a rapid and effective response to contain the outbreak.
Local communities are strongly encouraged to stay vigilant and adhere to any guidance provided by healthcare authorities in order to reduce the spread of diphtheria. The heartbreaking loss of lives highlights the critical need to uphold resilient healthcare systems, especially in times of adversity.
