…Govt shuts down schools in affected areas
• Releases emergency hotline
From Stanley Uzoaru and George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
In response to an outbreak of diphtheria, which already claimed the lives of six victims, the Imo State government has shutdown schools in the affected areas. This is even as the Imo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, assured that the government’s rapid response mechanisms have been activated to manage the outbreak effectively.
In a statement explaining the decision to shutdown schools, Commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Schools, Bernard Ikegwuoha, said the measure was taken to prevent further spread of the disease. Areas affected are schools in Mbutu, Aboh Mbaise and environs.
He said: “This is to inform you that there has been a reported outbreak of diphtheria in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area and possibly other parts of Imo State. As a precautionary measure, we urge you to take immediate action to ensure the health and safety of your children. We have already instructed that all schools in and around Mbutu communities be closed down till further notice.”
Ikegwuoha said further: “If your child complains of any sickness, please take the child to the hospital immediately. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing diphtheria and preventing complications.
He advised parents to watch out for the following symptoms: sore throat, fever, swollen glands, membrane covering the tonsils and difficulty in breathing. He also warned those not infected to avoid contact with affected ones.
The Commissioner urged all stakeholders, including teachers, pupils, students, parents, guardians, and community leaders to work together with healthcare professionals in their communities and local government areas to prevent the spread of the disease.
While reassuring residents that swift actions were being taken to contain the situation, the Health Commissioner said several cases had been identified and some cases confirmed through laboratory investigation.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, said: “We understand the concerns this may raise among residents, but we reassure the public that the situation is under control.”
Egu urged all residents of Mbutu and neighbouring communities to remain calm and to cooperate fully with the health workers and officials.
Noting that diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, she said: “We urge all residents of Mbutu and neighboring communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with health workers and officials on ground. Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, and early detection and treatment are highly effective.
Members of the public are advised to report any suspected symptoms—such as sore throat, fever, difficulty breathing, or neck swelling, to the nearest health facility or call the attention of the state disease surveillance team on 08036718000.