A mysterious illness has resulted in the deaths of five children in Kaduna in just 24 hours, prompting urgent investigations into the cause and potential health risks

Within a time frame of less than 24 hours, Tukur-Tukur community in Kaduna State’s Zaria has tragically lost at least five children.

On Saturday, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman – the Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) – expressed concern about an unfamiliar illness. He noted that all deceased children showed signs indicating they were affected by it.

Expressing deep concern over the potential health crisis, Suleiman voiced his belief that the disease looks more like diphtheria. As an elder of the community, he holds particular insight into these matters.

Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, an elder representing the Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria expresses deep concern and sorrow as he addresses members of his community, health authorities, and the public. He shares information about a troubling situation that has arisen within their midst.

In our community, there is a high possibility of an outbreak of diphtheria disease; thus we are currently facing a pressing health crisis.

It has been reported with great shock that five children have lost their lives in less than 24 hours, all of whom showed similar symptoms consistent with diphtheria. The cause of these illnesses is causing concern among both families and health officials. Sadly, some affected children died at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Teaching Hospital in Shika while others passed away within their homes – a devastating turn of events indeed.

The vibrant and tightly knit community is reeling from a troubling phenomenon that has sent shockwaves. Children are exhibiting symptoms such as severe throat infections, breathing difficulties, and noticeable rashes with reports of the number affected increasing. The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated – many children in Tukur-Tukur have already been impacted by these concerning signs, putting them at serious risk for widespread infection which may result in further loss of life.

Due to the severity of this circumstance, I implore health officials at every level – including local, state and federal authorities – to swiftly act and confront this developing healthcare crisis. It is imperative that we prioritize the health and welfare of our children above all else. Urgent measures are necessary in order to rapidly deploy medical resources, develop public awareness programs intended to educate families about symptoms along with prevention techniques, as well as dispatching skilled healthcare personnel who can quickly diagnose the situation while providing crucial care for those affected.

The support of our community is urgently required. We appeal to the government, health agencies and NGOs for timely intervention in order to avert additional tragedies and limit this possible epidemic. It is crucial that we act collaboratively and resolutely in protecting the lives of our susceptible children.

An urgent meeting was held with community leaders, parents, and health professionals to address the crisis and safeguard our children. Sadly though, it seems that obtaining the necessary vaccines is proving difficult.

By relaying this message, we emphasize that the responsibility of ensuring good health lies on all members of our community. It is essential for us to remain alert, take initiative and join hands in combating any potential risks being faced by our children’s well-being.