The Oyo State Government has strengthened its efforts to curb the spread of diphtheria and protect residents, in response to the recent outbreak of the disease in some parts of the country.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi said this during a visit to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), Ibadan, the state capital.
Ajetunmobi noted that “Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and direct contact with infected wounds.”
She explained that “it primarily affects the throat and upper airways, forming a thick greyish membrane that can obstruct breathing, revealing that symptoms include sore throat, fever, cough, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing, and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.”
The Commissioner reiterated that the government has intensified surveillance, case management, and vaccination campaigns, while healthcare workers are on high alert to respond swiftly to suspected cases.
Ajetunmobi urged residents to stay informed, take necessary precautions, maintain personal hygiene, and support the government’s public health interventions so as to prevent the spread of diphtheria in the state.
She advised parents to ensure children receive the three doses of the Pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age.
Ajetunmobi said: “Pregnant women should receive the Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccine during antenatal care, Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing, covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding sharing personal items.
“Avoid close contact with infected individuals and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise,” she said
Ajetunmobi said the following numbers can be contacted for more information or to report suspected cases; 08033742052, 07032067763.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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