Oyo State Government Amplifies Diphtheria Response, Calls for Citizen Vigilance

Ibadan, Oyo State – In response to the ongoing diphtheria outbreak affecting regions across the nation, the Oyo State Government has escalated its efforts to contain the spread of the disease and safeguard its populace.

Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Commissioner for Health, announced the intensified measures at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in Ibadan. She emphasized the critical need for public awareness and proactive participation in combating the infectious disease.

Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial ailment, spreads via respiratory droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing, as well as through direct contact with infected wounds. The infection primarily targets the throat and upper respiratory passages, leading to the formation of a thick, grayish membrane that can impede breathing.

Dr. Ajetunmobi outlined common symptoms of diphtheria, including sore throat, fever, cough, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. In severe instances, the disease can progress to respiratory distress, posing a significant threat to life.

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The Commissioner affirmed the government’s commitment to proactive measures, stating that surveillance, case management, and vaccination campaigns have been intensified. Healthcare personnel are on high alert, ready to respond swiftly to any suspected cases of diphtheria.

Dr. Ajetunmobi urged residents to remain informed, adopt necessary precautions, maintain strict personal hygiene, and support the government’s public health initiatives. She specifically called on parents to ensure that their children receive the complete three-dose regimen of the Pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age. She also advised pregnant women to receive the Tetanus-Diphtheria (Td) vaccine during antenatal care.

To prevent the spread of diphtheria, the Commissioner issued the following guidelines:

• Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing.
• Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid sharing personal items.
• Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of infection.
• Seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms arise.

For additional information or to report suspected cases, the public is encouraged to contact the following numbers: 08033742052, 07032067763. The Oyo State Government is dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens and is working diligently to control the diphtheria outbreak.