Oyo Gov’t Alerts Residents Over Diphtheria Disease

Oyo State government said efforts have been strengthened towards curbing the spread of diphtheria to the state and protecting residents following its outbreak as being experienced in some parts of the country.

Commissioner for Health in Oyo State, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi who stated this in Ibadan, the state capital at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), described diphtheria as a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and through direct contact with infected wounds.

According to the commissioner, diphtheria primarily affects the throat and upper airways, forming a thick greyish membrane that can obstruct breathing.

She added that symptoms its include sore throat, fever, cough, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing, and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.

Ajetunmobi reiterated that the government has intensified surveillance, case management, and vaccination campaigns, while healthcare workers have been placed on high alert to respond swiftly to suspected cases.

The commissioner, therefore noted that to prevent the spread of diphtheria, residents should stay informed, take necessary precautions, maintain personal hygiene, and support the government’s public health interventions to contain the disease.

She advised parents to ensure that the children receive the three doses of the Pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age.

“Pregnant women should receive the Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccine during antenatal care.

“Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing, covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding sharing personal items.

“Avoid close contact with infected individuals and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise”, she said.

The commissioner also urged residents to call 08033742052, 07032067763 for more information or to report suspected cases.