Residents of the Tukur-Tukur community in the Zaria local government area of Kaduna State have said they are witnessing an urgent health crisis as there is a strong likelihood of an outbreak of diphtheria disease in their community if necessary preventative measures are not taken urgently.
In a statement by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, an elder of Tukur-Tukur Community, Zaria and the director of Publicity and Advocacy of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) said it was revealed that already some children in the community were in hospital due to the suspected disease.
According to Abdul-Azeez,” it is with profound concern and a heavy heart that I, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, an elder representing the Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria, address our community members, health authorities and the general public regarding a highly alarming situation that has unfolded in our midst.
“We are witnessing an urgent health crisis as there is a strong likelihood of an outbreak of diphtheria disease in our community. In a shocking turn of events, it has been reported that five children have tragically lost their lives within a span of less than 24 hours, all exhibiting similar symptoms consistent with diphtheria.”
“The cause of these illnesses has raised grave concern among families and health officials alike. Some of the affected children succumbed to this devastating disease at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Teaching Hospital in Shika, while others tragically passed away in the confines of their homes”.
He said the disturbing phenomenon has sent shockwaves throughout their community, which is known for its vibrant spirit and solidarity adding that the symptoms observed among the children include severe throat infections, difficulty in breathing, and distinct rashes, and there are reports of more children exhibiting the alarming signs.
“It is critical to emphasize that many children in Tukur-Tukur have been exposed to these symptoms, posing an imminent risk of widespread infection and further loss of life.Given the gravity of this situation, I urgently call upon health authorities at all levels—local, state, and federal—to promptly intervene and address this emerging health crisis.
“The health and well-being of our children must be the utmost priority. We require immediate mobilization of medical resources, the establishment of health awareness campaigns to educate families about the symptoms and prevention measures, and the mobilization of healthcare professionals to provide necessary care and swift diagnosis.
“Our community is in desperate need of support. We implore the government, health agencies, and non-governmental organizations to provide timely assistance to prevent further tragedies and contain this potential outbreak. It is imperative that we act collectively and decisively to safeguard the lives of our vulnerable children,” he said.
He disclosed that they had earlier convened a meeting with community leaders, parents, and health professionals to discuss the crisis and ensure that the necessary steps were taken to protect their children. However, it appears that the required vaccines are not readily available.
Abdul-Azeez reiterated that health is a communal responsibility and called on the people to be vigilant, proactive and united in their approach to confront the threat to children’s lives.
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