The Edo State Government has revealed that it has activated an emergency public health response to contain the recent outbreak of Diphtheria reported in certain parts of the State.
The Chief Press Secretary Governor, Fred Itua in a statement issued Thursday said the state government is deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the situation and safeguard the health of residents.
He added that the governor was 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.
Itua noted: “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.
“Key interventions currently underway include the procurement of life-saving vaccines to drive an immediate and statewide vaccination campaign targeting vulnerable populations, especially children.
“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 governor’s spokesperson added 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.
Itua explained that medical personnel are being briefed and equipped to respond appropriately, while the State’s disease surveillance network was being expanded to trace and monitor potential contacts swiftly.
He stressed that the 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.
Itua added: “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.”
Itua said the state government assured the public that there was no cause for panic, adding that the situation was under control, and all necessary protocols are being enforced to prevent further spread.