Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Oyo State government has intensified its efforts to curb the spread of diphtheria and protect residents across all 33 local government areas.
Speaking at the Emergency Operations Centre in Ibadan, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, emphasized the highly contagious nature of the disease.
“Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and direct contact with infected wounds,” she explained. The bacterial infection primarily affects the throat and upper airways, forming a thick grayish membrane that can obstruct breathing.
To combat the outbreak, the government has heightened surveillance, case management, and vaccination campaigns. “Healthcare workers are on high alert to respond swiftly to suspected cases,” Ajetunmobi assured.
She highlighted symptoms such as sore throat, fever, cough, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing, warning that severe cases could lead to respiratory distress.
The Commissioner urged residents to stay informed, maintain personal hygiene, and support public health interventions. “Avoid close contact with infected individuals and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise,” she advised.
Ajetunmobi also stressed the importance of vaccination, urging parents to ensure children receive the pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age. “Pregnant women should receive the Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccine during antenatal care,” she added.
She advised residents to practice good hygiene, including handwashing and covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing.
For more information or to report suspected cases, she provided the following helpline numbers: 08033742052 and 07032067763.
