The Benue State Government has strengthened surveillance and preparedness against diphtheria as cases of the infectious disease continue to rise across the country.
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, disclosed this during an interaction with journalists on Saturday.
Ogwuche said although Benue had not recorded any case of diphtheria, the movement of people to other parts of the country, particularly neighbouring Nasarawa State, had made it necessary for the state to strengthen its preparedness.
He added that the ministry was working round the clock to prevent the disease from spreading to the state.
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According to him, “The epidemiological and public health emergency unit in the ministry has been activated to respond to anyone affected by the infectious disease,” adding that “the immunisation coverage in the 23 local government areas of the state has been strengthened.”
The commissioner described diphtheria as a serious contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which affects the upper respiratory system, particularly the nose and throat.
He explained that the disease can spread through coughing and sneezing, particularly in crowded environments.
Ogwuche said diphtheria outbreaks occurred mostly in areas with low vaccination coverage.
He therefore urged parents to ensure that their children receive routine immunisation and seek prompt medical attention if they notice symptoms such as fever or difficulty swallowing.
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