Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State government said it has placed hospitals in the state on red alert to address patients brought in with the Diphtheria disease.
The state governor, Monday Okpebholo, disclosed this through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua in Benin City.
The statement said, the state government wishes to inform the general public that it is fully aware of the recent outbreak of Diphtheria reported in certain parts of the state.
In response, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the situation and safeguard the health of residents.
The statement added that governor Okpebholo, demonstrating decisive leadership, is personally coordinating surveillance and monitoring efforts, working closely with the State Ministry of Health and other critical stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective containment of the disease.
It added that the key interventions currently underway include the procurement of life-saving vaccines to drive an immediate and statewide vaccination campaign targeting vulnerable populations, especially children.
It pointed out that the government is also ramping up public awareness campaigns through multiple platforms—radio, television, community outreach, and social media—to educate citizens on the symptoms of diphtheria, preventive measures, and the importance of early treatment.
The statement reiterated that hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert and instructed to intensify case detection, prompt isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in accordance with national and international guidelines.
It stressed that the medical personnel are being briefed and equipped to respond appropriately, while the State’s disease surveillance network is being expanded to trace and monitor potential contacts swiftly.
Further more, it said that the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole has been at the forefront of the State’s medical response, working tirelessly with the emergency health task force to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide real-time updates to the public.
It opined that in an inclusive move, school owners and proprietors are actively collaborating with the Government to implement early warning systems, enforce hygiene standards, and carry out health screenings where necessary to protect schoolchildren—who are among the most vulnerable.
In addition, Governor Okpebholo has convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting with representatives from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and community development groups to harmonize efforts and strengthen the response framework.
The Government assures the public that there is no cause for panic. The situation is under control, and all necessary protocols are being enforced to prevent further spread. Edo State has a strong track record in managing public health emergencies, and this instance is no exception.
Governor Okpebholo urges citizens to remain calm but vigilant. Residents are advised to report any symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, or difficulty in breathing to the nearest healthcare facility.
The Government also encourages all residents to cooperate with health officials and participate fully in the vaccination and awareness drive.
Edo State remains committed to the health and well-being of its people and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that this outbreak is swiftly and permanently addressed.