The Edo State Government has taken delivery of 90 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines as part of efforts to curb the spread of the infectious disease across the state.

State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, disclosed this on Monday in Benin City while handing over 70 of the vaccine doses to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

According to Dr. Oshiomhole, the vaccines were secured through the collaboration of the state government with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Delta State Ministry of Health. He noted that while 70 doses were provided by the NCDC, an additional 20 doses were sourced from Delta State.

“We are working in collaboration with UBTH and the NCDC. We have spoken with the DG of NCDC, and he graciously released 70 doses of the anti-diphtheria vaccine. Delta State also supported us with another 20 doses,” Oshiomhole said.

He expressed concern about the evolving nature of the outbreak, noting that some of the confirmed cases had a history of full childhood immunization, raising concerns about the need to expand immunization coverage beyond children.

“We are engaging with the national body of the Primary Health Care Development Agency to seek clearance to possibly immunize individuals above the age of five, including adults and frontline health workers,” he said.

Oshiomhole also commended Senator Monday Okpebholo for approving the donation of hospital beds, fittings, and other essential items to the UBTH Emergency Centre, which had previously been constrained by limited bed space.

Receiving the vaccines on behalf of UBTH, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Prof. Stanley Okugbo, and Dr. Fidelis Eki-Udoko thanked the Edo State Government for the timely intervention and support.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Edo State Chapter, has issued a public health alert on the recent outbreaks of diphtheria and dengue fever in the state.

In a statement issued in Benin City, Chairman of the Edo NMA, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, urged residents to embrace routine immunization and adhere to preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.

“Diphtheria and dengue fever pose a significant public health threat. We must take urgent steps to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities,” Oseghale said.

He emphasised the importance of hygiene, vector control, and early detection, calling for stronger community sensitization and public health education to contain the outbreak.