FG Deploys Task Force Over Diphtheria Outbreaks In Kano, Katsina

The Federal Government has set up an emergency task force to respond to diphtheria outbreaks in Kano and Katsina, with officials focusing on surveillance, vaccination gaps and faster access to treatment.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare announced the move after fresh concern over cases in the two states. Premium Times reported that Health Minister Muhammad Pate directed the task force as part of the government response to protect children and slow the spread of the disease.

The task force brings together the health ministry, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, affected state governments and international partners, including WHO and UNICEF.

Its work will include case investigation, stronger disease surveillance, community sensitisation and vaccination of children who have missed required doses. Officials are also expected to focus on communities where low immunisation coverage may be helping the disease spread.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets or close contact. It can cause fever, sore throat and a thick membrane in the throat, and severe cases may lead to heart or nerve damage.

Nigeria has recorded more than 40,000 suspected diphtheria cases and over 1,000 deaths since the outbreak began in 2022, according to Premium Times.

Sources: Premium Times, Vanguard