While some samples were sent to Abuja for confirmation, two instances had been confirmed in the local government areas of Kazaure and Jahun.
An epidemic of 91 suspected cases of diphtheria in 14 local government districts of Jigawa State has resulted in at least 10 fatalities.
During a news conference in Dutse on Sunday, the State Ministry of Health verified this to the media.
Two instances have been confirmed thus far in the local government areas of Kazaure and Jahun, according to the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Salisu Mu’azu, while some samples have been sent to Abuja for confirmation.
“So far, we have confirmed two cases in Kazaure and Jahun local government areas, while additional samples have been sent to Abuja for confirmation,” he said.
Mu’azu emphasised that the fact that this outbreak occurred in places where routine zero-dose immunisation against the disease had previously been practised made it particularly alarming.
He claimed that the ministry launched an investigation right after and quickly gathered data and information from the impacted areas. In order to coordinate next steps, they immediately alerted the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHDA).
In order to further emphasise the seriousness of the situation, he added, “The state government is actively preparing to administer vaccines as soon as they become available.” Additionally, he blamed the epidemic on the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects on healthcare systems, noting how difficult it was to suspend normal immunisation during that time.
The NPHDA and NCDC have been closely monitoring the situation in response and working with the state government to ensure a prompt and successful response to contain the epidemic.
To help control the spread of diphtheria, local communities are advised to be watchful and heed any instructions given by health officials. The terrible loss of life highlights the significance of keeping strong healthcare systems operating even in trying circumstances.
