THE Kaduna State Ministry of Health has confirmed cases of the diphtheria disease in some communities in Kafanchan, Jema’a local government area of the State.
The confirmation was seque to several reports about residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A and Kafanchan B Wards exhibiting symptoms like difficulty in breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.
Recalled that on Thursday, parts of Kafanchan, the disease killed about 10 children aged between three and 10 years.
However, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sani, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, in a statement early Friday morning, explained that upon learning about the unfortunate loss of lives in the affected communities, the State Governor immediately directed the State Ministry of Health to send an emergency team to investigate the cases.
The statement said 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.
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.
Avoid 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,” the Governor’s spokesperson stated.
