Korede Abdullah in Lagos
In the wake of a diphtheria outbreak that has claimed the lives of two children in Edo State, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, paid a critical visit to the Children’s Emergency Ward of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) on Tuesday.
The visit followed reports of confirmed cases and mounting anxiety among residents. Dr. Oshiomhole used the opportunity to assess the situation, commend frontline health workers, and console affected families.
“We are not taking this lightly. Diphtheria is a serious disease, but it is preventable and treatable when caught early,” he told journalists.
He added, “Our focus now is on stopping transmission, treating affected persons, and keeping our communities safe.”
Speaking further, the Commissioner revealed that the state has intensified disease surveillance across all local governments, improved diagnostic access in healthcare centers, and launched a series of targeted awareness campaigns.
These efforts, he said, are aimed at early detection and swift containment. He urged parents to ensure their children are fully immunized and appealed to community leaders to assist in spreading preventive information.
“We must act together. Everyone has a role in preventing the further spread of this disease,” Dr. Oshiomhole emphasized.
He also highlighted the collaboration between the Edo State Ministry of Health, UBTH, and federal health agencies in mounting a coordinated response.
“We are working closely with our partners to strengthen our emergency response systems and ensure that Edo people are protected,” he said.
The Commissioner’s visit not only reassured concerned families but also reinforced the government’s proactive commitment to managing public health threats and protecting the lives of its most vulnerable citizens.
