Diphtheria outbreak hits neighbouring state! Abia issues urgent health advisory with steps to protect residents. Click to read full warning and guidelines.
By All Facts Newspaper
Amid rising health concerns following a diphtheria outbreak in Imo State, the Abia State Government has moved swiftly to issue a public health advisory aimed at preventing the spread of the deadly infectious disease into the state.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Government House, Umuahia, the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed that the State Ministry of Health had already put health systems on high alert.
According to him, the measures being deployed are strictly preventive, in view of the disease’s rapid transmission rate and the proximity of the outbreak zone to Abia.
“The Ministry of Health has issued an urgent advisory in view of the diphtheria outbreak in Imo State. Though no cases have been reported in Abia, we must act proactively to protect our citizens,” he stated.
✅ Recommended Preventive Measures:
Immediate vaccination for children.
Adult vaccination for those unsure of their immunization status.
Parental vigilance: parents are urged to observe children for symptoms such as sore throat, fever, difficulty breathing, and swollen glands.
Prompt hospital visits if symptoms are detected.
Proper hygiene practices to limit the spread of the bacteria.
Community vigilance and early reporting of any suspected case to local health authorities.
Prince Kanu emphasized the importance of community engagement, urging stakeholders, civil society groups, media, religious leaders, and traditional institutions to help disseminate the information and boost public awareness across the 17 LGAs.
In the same briefing, the Commissioner also delivered good news on another health front: Abia State has been officially declared free of river blindness by the Federal Ministry of Health after 30 years of consistent mass drug administration.
“This is a major public health milestone. Abia has been certified free of river blindness after decades of effort. But while we celebrate that, we must stay alert against the threat of diphtheria,” he added.
Residents are strongly advised not to let down their guard, as diphtheria remains highly contagious and potentially fatal if not quickly detected and treated. The government assures that health facilities across the state are ready to respond should any suspected case arise.
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