By Oluwatosin Maliki
The Jigawa State ministry of health has confirmed the death of 10 people, as a result of an outbreak of 91 suspected cases of diphtheria across 14 local government areas in Jigawa State.
This was disclosed on Sunday by the State Ministry of Health to newsmen during a press briefing in Dutse.
Dr Salisu Mu’azu, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, explained that so far, only two cases had been confirmed at Kazaure and Jahun local government areas, while noting that some samples have been taken to Abuja for confirmation.
He stated, “So far, we have confirmed two cases in Kazaure and Jahun local government areas, while additional samples have been sent to Abuja for confirmation”.
Furthermore, the permanent secretary emphasized that this particular outbreak was very disturbing, because it occurred in locations with a history of zero-dose routine immunization against the epidemic.
Consequently, after the news of the outbreak, the ministry of health swiftly launched an investigation, gathering essential information and data from the affected regions. They promptly notified the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHDA) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to coordinate further actions.
Salisu also stressed the urgency of the situation, saying, “The state government is actively preparing to administer vaccines as soon as they become available.” He also attributed the outbreak to the disruptions in healthcare services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, explaining that the suspension of routine immunization during that period posed a significant challenge”.
While, responding to this incident the NPHDA and NCDC have been on a close watch, monitoring the situation and collaborating with the state ministry to ensure a swift and effective response to contain the outbreak.
Therefore, Local communities were encouraged to remain vigilant and follow any directives issued by health authorities to mitigate the spread of diphtheria. The unexpected loss of lives stresses on the importance of maintaining a robust healthcare systems even during challenging times.
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