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Taraba State has recorded its first confirmed case of diphtheria, after a patient died of the disease in Bali Local Government Area.
The state epidemiologist, Dr Udi Aketemo, who confirmed the development in a telephone interview with correspondents in Jalingo, said the patient died before comprehensive clinical management could be instituted.
He said the state initially faced difficulties in diagnosing suspected cases due to inadequate diagnostic facilities, a challenge that has now been addressed following the deployment of testing kits and specialised laboratory equipment to the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.
“The case was recorded in Bali, and health authorities have intensified surveillance to determine whether there are additional infections and prevent further spread.”
“The new diagnostic capacity will enable us to test and confirm suspected cases more rapidly and facilitate timely intervention,” he said.
Aketemo disclosed that 14 suspected cases were subsequently identified and tested, but all returned negative.
He added that the Ministry of Health has activated its public health surveillance system, with particular attention to Bali and neighbouring communities.
“The surveillance involves tracking suspected cases, monitoring communities considered to be at risk and ensuring prompt medical intervention when necessary,” he explained.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Bordiya Buma, said the ministry was taking measures to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the state.
Bordiya assured residents that the government was working to contain the situation and prevent an outbreak.
Health officials urged parents and caregivers, particularly those in Bali, to ensure that children are fully vaccinated under the routine immunisation programme.
Residents were also advised to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as severe sore throat, fever or difficulty breathing.
