Kaduna Health Ministry Issues Urgent Advisory Amid Diphtheria Outbreak
The Kaduna State Ministry of Health has issued an urgent public health advisory following a surge in diphtheria cases across parts of the state. According to a statement released on Saturday, children account for the majority of reported infections, prompting heightened concern among health officials.
Diphtheria: A Highly Contagious Bacterial Infection
The ministry explained that diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, close contact with infected individuals, or sharing contaminated personal items. Health officials warned that unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children face the greatest risk of severe complications, which can be fatal if left untreated.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Residents are advised to watch for symptoms including sore throat, fever, chills, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, swelling of the neck—commonly referred to as 'bull neck'—and the presence of a thick grey or white membrane covering the throat or tonsils. The ministry stressed that early diagnosis and prompt medical treatment are critical to improving survival rates.
Immediate Actions for Parents and Caregivers
The ministry urged parents and caregivers to take anyone displaying symptoms to the nearest health facility without delay. It also cautioned against self-medication or relying solely on traditional remedies. As part of the response, the ministry called on parents to ensure their children receive all routine immunisations and encouraged those who have missed scheduled vaccinations to visit the nearest Primary Health Care (PHC) centre for free catch-up vaccination services.
Preventive Measures and Collaborative Efforts
Residents were advised to maintain good hand hygiene, practise proper cough etiquette, and avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of the disease. The ministry said it is working with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, development partners, and healthcare facilities to strengthen disease surveillance, expand immunisation coverage, provide treatment, and contain the outbreak.
Call for Calm and Collective Action
While urging residents to remain calm, the ministry emphasised that timely reporting of suspected cases and complete vaccination remain the most effective ways to prevent the spread of diphtheria. 'Together, we can stop diphtheria,' the ministry said, encouraging anyone experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
