The Jigawa State Ministry of Health has sadly confirmed the loss of ten lives in the wake of an outbreak that has seen 91 suspected cases of diphtheria emerge across 14 local government areas within the state.
Dr. Salisu Mu’azu, the permanent secretary of the ministry, disclosed this information during a press briefing in Dutse. Of the reported cases, two have been officially confirmed in Kazaure and Jahun local government areas, while additional samples have been sent to Abuja for further confirmation.
This concerning outbreak has primarily occurred in regions where routine immunization against diphtheria had been lacking, contributing to the vulnerability of the population.
Dr. Mu’azu stated that the ministry has swiftly undertaken an investigation, gathering vital information and data from the affected areas. These findings have been shared with both the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHDA) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to facilitate appropriate and immediate action.
In response to the crisis, the state government is actively working on plans to administer vaccines as soon as they become available. Dr. Mu’azu attributed the outbreak to disruptions in healthcare services experienced several years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, routine immunization activities were severely impacted due to the suspension of various health services.
Efforts are now underway to address the outbreak, ensure necessary vaccinations, and provide the needed healthcare support to the affected communities in Jigawa State. Authorities are committed to protecting the health and well-being of the population and preventing further loss of lives to this preventable disease.
