In response to the spreading diphtheria outbreak in Edo State, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Delta State Government have provided vaccine support to the state.
Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, disclosed that the NCDC donated 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccine, while the Delta State Ministry of Health contributed 20 doses.
The vaccine support comes as two persons died last week from the disease, out of five patients diagnosed with advanced symptoms of the highly infectious illness.
Oshiomhole expressed concern that the disease is spreading beyond its expected scope, infecting individuals who have been fully vaccinated, including those above the age of five.
“We are working in collaboration with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and the NCDC. We have spoken with the Director-General of NCDC, and he graciously released 70 doses of anti-diphtheria to us,” Oshiomhole said.
The commissioner added that the Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the donation of beds, fittings, and other items to the emergency centre at UBTH, and may also cover the medical expenses of affected patients.
Professor Stanley Okugbo, chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at UBTH, commended the state government for its swift response in providing vaccines. Okugbo confirmed that all diphtheria patients are responding to treatment.
Okugbo urged members of the public to report symptoms early to health facilities, listing symptoms such as thick, grey membranes covering the throat and tonsils, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
He emphasized that diphtheria is best prevented through vaccination and proper hygiene, including washing hands with soap and clean running water.
