From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, a community leader and director in the Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), has raised the alarm over the resurgence of diphtheria in the Tukur-Tukur community of Zaria, Kaduna State.
Diphtheria, a bacterial infection affecting the throat and nose, broke out in Tukur-Tukur some months ago, killing four children. Health officials, working with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, managed to control the spread. However, Suleiman, in a statement on Sunday, May 4, warned that the disease’s return poses serious health risks and urged authorities to act quickly to prevent further deaths.
“In Kaduna State, Nigeria, a grave public health concern has emerged within the Tukur-Tukur community of Zaria: the resurgence of diphtheria, a disease many believed had been largely eradicated.
“As a director in the Northern Elders Forum and a committed leader within our community, I feel compelled to raise the alarm regarding this alarming development. The recent tragic loss of two children within just 48 hours—exhibiting symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and debilitating weakness—underscores the urgent need for a coordinated health response.
“Diphtheria, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the throat and nose, poses significant risks, including respiratory failure and heart damage. Once a common childhood illness, the introduction of widespread vaccination programmes in the mid-20th century drastically reduced its prevalence.
“However, the outbreak in Tukur-Tukur serves as a reminder of the fragility of our public health achievements. Just months ago, our community faced a similar crisis that claimed four lives before health officials, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, intervened to control the spread.
“The recurrence of diphtheria in Tukur-Tukur raises critical questions about the state of our public health infrastructure, vaccination coverage, and community awareness. The cyclical nature of such outbreaks often unveils underlying systemic issues, including inadequate access to healthcare, vaccine hesitancy, and insufficient community engagement. As I have emphasised, the cooperation of parents with health workers is paramount in combating this resurgence.
“It is essential for parents to recognise the importance of vaccinations and to seek immediate medical attention for any symptoms indicative of diphtheria or other communicable diseases. The role of health authorities in this scenario cannot be overstated. A swift and robust response is imperative to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life.
“Mobilising healthcare professionals to Tukur-Tukur must be prioritised, ensuring that vaccinations are administered, public awareness campaigns are launched, and treatment facilities are adequately equipped to handle potential cases. Collaboration between local health officials, international organisations such as WHO and UNICEF, and community leaders is vital for an effective response.
“In addressing the current crisis, fostering a culture of health literacy within our communities is essential. Educational initiatives aimed at informing parents about the dangers of diphtheria, the significance of vaccination, and the need for prompt medical intervention can empower individuals to take charge of their health and that of their children.
“Engaging community leaders, teachers, and local organisations in these efforts can amplify the reach and impact of health messages, creating a united front against the resurgence of diseases that threaten the well-being of our children.
“Our government must invest in strengthening healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas. This includes not only ensuring the availability of vaccines but also enhancing the capacity of healthcare facilities to manage outbreaks effectively. Training healthcare workers in the recognition and treatment of diphtheria, alongside establishing surveillance systems to monitor disease trends, is vital for early detection and response.
“Together, through collaboration, education, and commitment, we can overcome this resurgence and work towards a healthier future for all. The fight against diphtheria is not just a medical challenge; it is a collective responsibility that demands our attention and action.”