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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Executive Director, National Primary Health Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, on Wednesday, confirmed that 600 people have died of diphtheria since the first case of the outbreak was recorded this year.
Dr. Shuaib, in an address delivered at the third quarterly review meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee (NTLC) on PHC delivery, in Abuja, on Wednesday, restated that Kano state is responsible for larger percentage of the cases as well as the deaths.
He said: “I must address the recent outbreak of Diphtheria, primarily centered in Kano state as the epicentre but extending its grasp across 19 states and the FCT.
“Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Borno, Kaduna and Bauchi states bear the brunt of this outbreak. There has been over 14,000 suspected cases and over 10,000 of these cases are in Kano. Indeed over 97 per cent of cases occur in the aforementioned states with over 600 deaths.
“It is heart-wrenching to realize that over 73 per cent of the reported diphtheria cases are children aged 1 to 14 years, and 80 per cent of those affected have not received any vaccinations.
“This revelation underscores the dire need for the NTLC and all stakeholders to intensify community mobilization, awakening public awareness and foster acceptance of vaccination services.”
The NPHCDA boss maintained that diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can prove fatal if prompt intervention is not provided. “It can spread through the air, much like the specter of COVID-19.
“However, we can mitigate its transmission through non-pharmaceutical measures such as wearing facemasks, practicing vigilant hand washing and maintaining physical distance from affected individuals, but we must be cautious to avoid stigmatizing or discriminating against those afflicted.”
The NPHCDA boss said that at the peak of the outbreak, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, established the Diphtheria Emergency Task Team with the objective of bringing the outbreak under control.
“One of his charges was to involve the NTLC in the response effort. I am happy to report that in my field visit across Borno, Yobe, Jigawa and Kano States, the Royal Highnesses have been up and doing engaging their communities to ensure they are well informed about the importance of vaccination.”
Few weeks ago, the NPHCDA boss also disclosed that the 19 states with high cases of diphtheria are considering reinstating mandatory facemask use in public gatherings as a preventive measure against community transmission of the disease.
He also confirmed that Standard Operating Procedures for Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) use in health facilities and treatment centres have been developed and disseminated across the states, in addition to other case management measures.
He appreciated the Royal Fathers in the affected states for their unwavering support to the healthcare teams at all levels. “But we must redouble our efforts in educating our communities about the vital importance of routine vaccinations,” he maintained.
The NPHCDA boss also appreciated the Coordinating Minister of Health for his support and also the NTLC patron for his sterling leadership. “These unfolding developments serve as a poignant reminder of our pivotal role at the nexus of education and public health. As we navigate the challenges of our time, let us remain agile and responsive, unwavering in our dedication to our mission of improving lives.”
