Commissioner for Health and Human Services in Benue State, Dr Ogwuche Ejeh Paul, has said the ministry has strengthened surveillance and preparedness against diphtheria as cases continue to rise across the country.
Dr Ogwuche stated this during a press interview in the ministry, noting that although the state has not recorded any case, the movement of people to other parts of the country, especially neighbouring Nassarawa State, has made preparedness necessary.
He explained that diphtheria is an upper respiratory infection that affects the nose and throat and spreads through coughing and sneezing in cluster environments. The disease is a serious contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
The Health Commissioner maintained that the epidemiological and public health emergency unit in the ministry has been activated to respond to anyone affected by the infectious disease. He assured that immunisation coverage in the 23 local government areas of the state has been strengthened.
Dr Ogwuche emphasised that diphtheria outbreaks occur mostly in areas with low vaccination coverage. He urged parents to ensure children receive routine immunisation and to seek prompt medical attention when symptoms such as fever or difficulty in swallowing are noticed.
