The Edo State Government has announced the initiation of necessary measures to combat the ongoing diphtheria outbreak, which has unanticipatedly impacted individuals who were previously vaccinated, including adults.
This incident has reportedly resulted in two fatalities at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
According to a statement from Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, part of the measures involves the acquisition of life-saving vaccines for a statewide vaccination initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, particularly children.
Hospitals have been placed on high alert, and intervention agencies such as WHO, UNICEF, and others have been notified.
The statement also indicated that schools were informed to educate their pupils and students about maintaining proper hygiene while urging the public to remain calm.
A segment of the statement noted, “His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, has initiated an emergency public health response, mobilizing all essential resources and expertise to control the situation and protect the health of the populace.
“Demonstrating strong leadership, Governor Okpebholo is personally overseeing surveillance and monitoring operations, collaborating closely with the State Ministry of Health and other vital stakeholders to ensure prompt and effective containment of the disease.
“Key actions currently in progress include the acquisition of life-saving vaccines to launch an immediate statewide vaccination campaign aimed at vulnerable groups, especially children. The government is also enhancing public awareness efforts through various channels—radio, television, community outreach, and social media—to inform citizens about the symptoms of diphtheria, preventive actions, and the necessity of early treatment.
“Hospitals across the State have been placed on heightened alert and instructed to enhance case identification, immediate isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in alignment with national and international guidelines.
“Medical staff are being briefed and equipped to respond effectively, while the State’s disease surveillance network is being broadened to quickly trace and track potential contacts.
