By Ozioruva Aliu
BENIN CITY —TWO persons
have reportedly died of diphtheria popularly called whooping cough at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, Ugbowo, Edo State, amidst growing concerns over a nationwide shortage of vaccines.
The death of the two is out of five reported cases and the death is attributed to alleged immunisation gaps, surveillance lapses and lack of public health.
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection, primarily affecting the nose and throat, caused by the bacterium corynebacterium diphtheriae. It can also affect the skin and is transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected skin lesions.
It is said to be a preventable disease through vaccination, and prompt treatment with antitoxin and antibiotics is crucial to prevent complications and death
The incident led to the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, summoning an emergency meeting among heads of health institutions in the state, including World Health Organisation, WHO, and United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, where a quick response team was activated to commence free treatment.
According to Oshiomhole, “Diphtheria is vaccine preventable diseases and its resurgence in our state raises concern about immunisation gap, surveillance lapses and public health awareness. These cases are not just numbers, they represent real family, real loss and danger to communities. If they are left unchecked.
“We cannot afford to be reactive, we must act swiftly and collaboratively. The ministry has activated a response team and commenced free treatment. Residents are advised to ensure that children are fully immunized.”
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