Nigeria: Edo government receives anti-diphtheria vaccines as outbreak continues

The Edo State government has received 90 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines in response to a recent outbreak of the disease, which has already caused the death of two people. Of the total consignment, 70 doses have already been deployed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), the primary treatment centre for patients affected by the outbreak. State Commissioner for Health Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole formally handed over the vaccines to the hospital on Monday (June 9). The doses were secured from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Delta State Ministry of Health, reflecting inter-state collaboration in addressing the emergency. However, Dr. Oshiomhole expressed concern over the pattern of the current outbreak, saying that even individuals with a history of full immunisation have contracted the disease. He urged the state government to consult with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency for authorisation to expand vaccination coverage to older children, adults, and healthcare workers.
On their part, Professor Stanley Okugbo, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at UBTH, and Dr. Fidelis Eki-Udoko, Deputy Chairman and Consultant overseeing the children’s emergency unit, advised people to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if showing symptoms of the disease. These symptoms include thick grey membranes covering the throat and tonsils, sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, difficulty breathing, nasal discharge, fever, and fatigue. Dr. Eki-Udoko also recommended frequent handwashing with soap and water to prevent infection.