The Kaduna State Ministry of Health issued an urgent public health advisory following a recent increase in diphtheria cases across some parts of the state, with children accounting for the majority of infections.
the Ministry said the outbreak has prompted intensified efforts to contain the disease and appealed to parents, caregivers, schools, and community leaders to take immediate preventive measures to protect vulnerable children.
It also warned that unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children face the greatest risk of developing severe complications that could result in death.
Health authorities urged residents to be vigilant for symptoms including sore throat, fever, chills, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, swelling of the neck and a thick grey or white membrane covering the throat or tonsils.
diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the nose and throat and spreads through coughing, sneezing, close physical contact with infected persons, or sharing contaminated personal items.
