Edo State has recorded three deaths and six confirmed cases following a diphtheria outbreak, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, disclosed during a weekend press briefing in Benin City.
The total suspected cases now stand at 15, spread across six local government areas within the states.
“Since we declared the outbreak of the disease, we have recorded 15 suspected cases. Out of these figures, we have recorded six confirmed cases and three deaths,” Dr Oshiomhole stated.
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In addition to the diphtheria situation, the commissioner revealed that seven cases of dengue fever have also been identified in the state, though no fatalities have been recorded from that outbreak.
He assured residents that the health situation was under control and emphasized the importance of immunization in preventing such outbreaks.
“When there is low vaccine coverage, an outbreak like this would definitely happen. Currently, we have 65 percent vaccine coverage, and we are going to carry out the vaccination of children,” he said.
The state has received critical support to combat the spread. The Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) provided 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines, while Governor Monday Okpebholo secured an additional 20 doses from Delta State.
The University of Benin Teaching Hospital is currently treating affected patients, with the government donating intravenous fluids, beds, oxygen cylinders, and protective equipment.
Dr Oshiomhole said a fresh vaccination campaign would soon begin, targeting children aged 5 to 14. He urged parents and schools to watch for symptoms and seek medical help promptly.
He also advised citizens to maintain hygiene, cough into their elbows, observe distancing, and wash hands regularly to reduce infection risk.
