The government of the state of Oyo has intensified efforts to curb the spread of diphtheria disease and protect residents.
He also urged residents of several communities in the 33 areas of the local government to take precautions against the spread of the disease.
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The health commissioner, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, declared this in Ibadan, at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Ibadan
According to her, diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory drops by coughing or sneezing and direct contact with infected wounds. It mainly affects the throat and upper respiratory tract, forming a thick gray membrane that can obstruct breathing.
He added that symptoms include throat pain, fever, cough, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing and, in severe cases, respiratory anguish.
Ajetunmobi reiterated that the government has intensified surveillance, case management and vaccination campaigns, while health workers are on maximum alert to respond quickly to suspicious cases.
The commissioner, therefore, said that to prevent the spread of diphtheria, residents must remain informed, take the necessary precautions, maintain personal hygiene and support government public health interventions to contain the disease.
He advised parents to make sure the children receive the three doses of the vaccine pentavo at 6, 10 and 14 weeks.
“Pregnant women should receive the Tetanos-Disphteria vaccine (TD) during prenatal care.
“Keep good personal hygiene, including regular hand washing, mouth cover when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding sharing personal items.”
“Avoid close contact with infected people and look for medical attention immediately if symptoms arise,” he said.
The commissioner said that the following numbers can be contacted for more information or to inform suspicious cases: 08033742052, 07032067763.
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