The Kaduna State Ministry of Health has attributed the deaths of 10 children in various communities within Kafanchan, Jemaá Local Government Area, to a diphtheria outbreak.
Governor Uba Sani took immediate action in response to the reported fatalities caused by this unfamiliar disease. He promptly instructed an emergency health team to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The governor emphasized that the confirmation of the diphtheria outbreak came after receiving multiple reports from residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A, and Kafanchan B wards, who exhibited concerning symptoms, including difficulty in breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.
“In light of the tragic loss of lives in the affected communities, His Excellency Senator Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, swiftly directed the Kaduna State Ministry of Health to dispatch an emergency team to investigate these cases.”According to the statement, the Ministry’s preliminary report indicates that the diphtheria outbreak in Kafanchan began with its first recorded case at the start of July 2023.
The governor praised the swift and efficient response of the health officials to the health emergency and urged them to maintain their diligence in containing and eventually eradicating the disease.
The statement further highlighted the measures taken by the Ministry, including transferring affected cases to well-equipped hospitals for proper management, conducting active case searches, tracing contacts, and conducting extensive community sensitization in all affected areas and their vicinity.
The statement further emphasized that residents have been advised to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease and safeguard their communities.
Residents were encouraged to adopt the following preventive measures:
1. Wash their hands regularly with soap and water.
2. Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.
3. Cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
4. Stay at home from work or school if they are feeling unwell.
5. Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, to boost immunity.
6. Report any suspected cases of diphtheria in their surrounding communities.
By adhering to these guidelines, the aim is to curb the transmission of the disease and protect the health and well-being of the community at large.
