Mirian Gom 
BENUE, Nigeria – The Benue State Government has strengthened surveillance and preparedness against diphtheria despite recording no confirmed case of the infectious disease in the state.
The State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, disclosed this during an interaction with journalists on Saturday.
Ogwuche said the movement of people between Benue and other parts of the country, particularly neighbouring Nasarawa State, made increased preparedness necessary.
He said the state had activated its epidemiological and public health emergency structures to respond quickly if a case is detected.
“The ministry has strengthened surveillance and preparedness against diphtheria as cases continue to rise across the country,” the commissioner said.
He added that the epidemiological and public health emergency unit had been activated to respond to anyone affected by the disease.
According to Ogwuche, immunisation coverage across the state’s 23 local government areas had also been strengthened as part of preventive measures.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat, and can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The commissioner said outbreaks were more likely to occur in communities with low vaccination coverage.
He therefore urged parents and caregivers to ensure that children receive routine immunisation against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Ogwuche also advised residents to seek prompt medical attention when children or other household members develop symptoms such as fever, difficulty swallowing or other signs of respiratory infection.
The state government’s preparedness measures are aimed at strengthening early detection, surveillance, immunisation and rapid response should suspect cases emerge.
The commissioner urged residents to remain alert and cooperate with health officials as the state continues to monitor developments in neighbouring states and across the country.
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