The Edo State Government has confirmed an outbreak of diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, which has already claimed two lives.
The confirmation was made during an emergency health response meeting held in Benin City on Tuesday.
The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, disclosed that the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) had confirmed five cases of the disease, including the two fatalities. The emergency meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, local health agencies, and development partners, as the state mobilizes a coordinated response.
Describing the development as “a serious cause for concern,” Dr. Oshiomhole warned of the dangers posed by diphtheria if not promptly identified and treated. “Diphtheria is a potentially life-threatening infection that affects the nose and throat. It can lead to severe complications and even death if not addressed early,” he said.
He explained that the increase in diphtheria cases, combined with existing public health challenges such as antimicrobial resistance and ongoing viral threats, underscores the urgency for swift and strategic action.
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To combat the outbreak, Dr. Oshiomhole outlined a multi-pronged response plan, including:
Deployment of a rapid response team to affected areas,
Strengthening surveillance systems and contact tracing efforts,
Intensifying public health communication and education campaigns,
Ensuring that vaccines are both available and accessible to residents, and
Engaging community leaders to foster trust and cooperation.
The commissioner commended UBTH for their timely diagnosis and response, noting that collaboration with federal and international health partners has already begun. “Their swift intervention made it possible for us to contain what could have spread much further,” he said.
He assured residents that the state government is fully committed to containing the outbreak and mitigating further loss of life. “We are not just reacting; we are proactively building a framework to prevent escalation and future recurrence,” he added.
Dr. Oshiomhole urged citizens to remain vigilant and take early symptoms seriously. He advised anyone experiencing sore throat, fever, or difficulty breathing to seek immediate medical attention and avoid contact with others while ill.
He also cautioned against panic, encouraging instead a calm and informed public. “This is not a time to panic, but to prepare, inform, and act responsibly,” he said.
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