People with this illness have a fever, a runny nose, a sore throat, a cough, red eyes, a swollen neck, and trouble breathing.
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), there is a diphtheria outbreak in Lagos and Kano states.
However, it did reassure that the agency is responding to the crisis, as the illness is said to have killed about 25 people in the state of North Western.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said in a statement on Friday that it had responded to reports of cases of diphtheria in Lagos and Kano States and was keeping an eye on the situation in Osun and Yobe States, where cases are currently being discovered.
“Laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported in addition to clinically suspected cases, and the NCDC is collaborating with state ministries of health and other partners to improve surveillance and response to the outbreak.” This includes educating the people about maintaining their personal and community safety.
The NCDC told Nigerians that they should make sure their children get all three doses of the pentavalent vaccine for children. This will lower the chance that their children will get the disease.
“Healthcare staff should keep a high index of suspicion for diphtheria, which means they should be watchful and alert for diphtheria signs.” The local government area (LGA), state disease surveillance officer (DSNO), or the NCDC should be notified through our toll-free line (6232) if a person exhibits diphtheria-like symptoms and signs.
“Close contacts with a confirmed case of diphtheria should be closely monitored and treated as needed with diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotic prophylaxis.” All healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, lab scientists, support personnel, etc.) who are more likely to come into contact with cases of diphtheria should receive the vaccine.
The Corynebacterium species, which causes diphtheria, affects the throat, nose, and occasionally the skin, according to the NCDC.
People with this illness have a fever, a runny nose, a sore throat, a cough, red eyes, a swollen neck, and trouble breathing.
