A tragic development has unfolded in Borno State, as the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Health, Goni Abba, revealed that 59 individuals have lost their lives due to the recent outbreak of diphtheria. This heartbreaking news comes amidst a surge in recorded cases, with a total of 481 individuals falling victim to this contagious disease across the state’s 14 local government areas.
According to Director Abba, the situation remains dire, with approximately 20 cases currently admitted and undergoing treatment. In an effort to better understand the scale and nature of the outbreak, 216 samples have been sent to the esteemed National Reference Laboratory in Abuja for thorough analysis.
Results have started to trickle in from the laboratory, with 29 samples already processed. The Director revealed that his team convenes daily at the public health laboratory to collaborate with their partners in devising a prompt and effective response to these diphtheria cases.
Exceptionally severe instances of diphtheria, where the affected children struggle to swallow or breathe properly, have necessitated referrals to the renowned University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Here, these brave young patients undergo tracheostomy procedures, allowing the opening of their windpipes to facilitate normal respiration and nourishment.
There is a glimmer of hope amidst the desolation, however, as Director Abba asserts that the transmission and mortality rate of diphtheria have been contained through the dedicated efforts of the state government. Swift action was taken, as local government rapid response teams were deployed with urgently required medication and antitoxins.
Director Abba noted that, unlike the surge experienced in July, there has been a gradual decline in reported cases, thanks to the unwavering support and provisioning of drugs and antitoxins by the Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Additionally, concerted efforts are underway to administer vaccinations to children in the affected areas.
Amidst these arduous circumstances, Director Abba offered reassurance that they are making positive strides in combating diphtheria and that every effort is being made to bring all cases under control. The Borno State Primary Healthcare Board remains resolute in their mission to safeguard the health and well-being of their community.
