Sokoto Govt Puts Schools On Alert Over Diphtheria Scare

Sokoto State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has placed all principals and school authorities on red alert following reported cases of diphtheria in the neighbouring states.

The commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala, directed principals to closely monitor the health status of students and staff and promptly report any suspected case to the nearest health facility and the ministry for immediate action.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Muhammad Iya.

He said the health and safety of students and staff remain the top priority of the state government.
The ministry listed the symptoms of diphtheria as including a sore throat, hoarseness, mild fever and chills, swollen glands in the neck, weakness and fatigue, a runny nose or cough, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and a thick greyish membrane in the throat.

It said symptoms usually appear two to five days after exposure.

The ministry urged school authorities to seek immediate medical attention for anyone showing suspected symptoms.

It identified Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto; Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), Specialist Hospital, Sokoto and Amanawa General Hospital as facilities designated for prompt medical attention.

The ministry further advised principals to strengthen hygiene practices in schools, promote regular handwashing, maintain clean school environments and encourage parents and guardians to ensure that their children are up to date with recommended vaccinations.

It called on school authorities, parents, staff and students to remain calm but vigilant and to cooperate fully with health authorities.