Diphtheria outbreak in Kano claims over 40 lives

Kano is facing a severe diphtheria outbreak with over 40 lives lost. Get details on the outbreak and the measures being taken to control it.

The outbreak of diphtheria in Kano State has caused a devastating impact, with over 40 fatalities – predominantly children. Additionally, many others have been hospitalized causing significant pressure on healthcare facilities within the area.

OBASANJONEWS noticed on Wednesday afternoon that the three wards situated at Kano’s Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) had reached their maximum occupancy, with several patients still awaiting medical attention.

As the government hospitals in the area lack appropriate resources to handle emergencies, there has been a significant increase in cases referred to IDH causing strain on their capacity.

Over the past two weeks, daily deaths have been reported by an unnamed hospital official who disclosed a concerning increase in fatalities.

According to the official, there has been a steady influx of patients requiring immediate medical attention at the hospital.

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According to the source, our hospital is facing a surge of patients from different areas as nearby government hospitals lack sufficient capacity to handle critical cases. Consequently, our healthcare facility is struggling with overwhelmed resources.

The crisis has left families with many challenges to overcome, and Samira Danzaki’s family is no exception. Her daughter was struck by severe fever and neck swelling as a result of the outbreak but is now receiving treatment at the hospital where she shows signs of improvement.

A patient, who prefers to keep their identity confidential, shared the deterioration of symptoms after experiencing catarrh initially.

An emergency meeting is currently being conducted to address the situation, as confirmed by Samira Sulaiman – who serves as Public Relations Officer for the State Hospital Management Board. However, no additional information was available at present and a communique with further details will be released in due course.

Healthcare officials in Kano are facing immense pressure to control the spread of the outbreak and avert additional fatalities.