The Imo State Government has confirmed the outbreak of diphtheria in the state.
It disclosed that several suspected cases had been identified in the Mbutu community, in Aboh Mbaise local council of the state.
Consequently, the state government has offered to treat the patients free of charge.
The Guardian learnt that no fewer than six school children were feared dead a few days ago as a result of the suspected ailment. Schools around the vicinity have been shut.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, in a statement, said the ministry has activated the rapid containment response mechanism to stop the spread to the other 26 local councils in the state.
“Following laboratory confirmation of some of these cases, the Ministry has activated its rapid response mechanisms to contain the situation,” Egu said.
Egbu assured that the measures were in collaboration with development partners, putting it under control, seeking the collaboration of people, stressing, “We understand the concerns this development may raise among residents and stakeholders.
“However, we wish to reassure the general public that the situation is under control.
“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with our development partners, has deployed surveillance and medical response teams to the affected community to ensure swift identification, isolation, and treatment of cases.
“Key response actions already underway include; free treatment and case management of all confirmed and suspected cases; active case search and contact tracing within the community and surrounding areas; risk communication and public awareness campaigns to educate residents on preventive measures; provision of diphtheria antitoxins and essential antibiotics; and targeted immunization for at-risk populations, especially children.”
Egbu urged the people of the affected area to be calm and work with the medical team.
“We urge all residents of Mbutu and neighboring communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with health workers and officials on the ground. Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, and early detection and treatment are highly effective.”
Egbu listed the symptoms of the disease, urging the public to look out for them.
“Members of the public are advised to report any suspected symptom such as sore throat, fever, difficulty breathing, or neck swelling to the nearest health facility or call the attention of our disease surveillance team (08036718000).”
She stressed: “The Imo State Ministry of Health remains committed to protecting the health and safety of all citizens, in line with the vision of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for a resilient and responsive health system.
“We will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves.”
In a similar development, the Executive Chairman of the Imo State Universal Basic Education Board (IMSUBEB), Egboh Chidiebere, has expressed gratitude to the governor, Hope Uzodimma, for his “swift and timely intervention in the containment of the disease.
“This timely intervention by His Excellency reflects not only his commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of every Imolite but also his enduring compassion and leadership in times of crisis.
“I also wish to express my deepest condolences to the families who have tragically lost their children as a result of this outbreak. May God grant them strength and comfort in this time of grief.
“In light of this, I strongly urge all parents and guardians to ensure that their children are properly immunised, as this is the most effective way to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases such as diphtheria.
“Furthermore, I call on all Imolites to fully embrace the free healthcare initiative being offered by the Imo State Government under the leadership of His Excellency. This policy is designed to make quality healthcare accessible to all, particularly the vulnerable in our communities.
“Let us continue to support His Excellency’s efforts as he works tirelessly to build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Imo State for all.”
