The Kaduna State Government, through the Kaduna State Ministry of Health, has confirmed an outbreak of diphtheria in some communities in Kafanchan, Jema’a local government area of the state.

According to POLITICS NIGERIA, confirmation follows reports of residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A and Kafanchan B Wards exhibiting symptoms such as difficulty breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.

The state government has said that the first recorded case of diphtheria in Kafanchan was in the beginning of July 2023.

The state Governor has urged residents to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease, including washing their hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.

The state government has also said that it is moving affected cases to adequately equipped hospitals for proper management and is carrying out active case searches and contact tracing.

Residents who suspect that they or someone they know may have diphtheria are advised to contact the nearest health facility.

“Actions taken by the Ministry so far include the movement of affected cases to adequately equipped hospitals for proper management, active case searches, contact tracing and intensive community sensitization in all affected communities and surrounding areas.

“In line with these efforts, residents of Kaduna State are advised to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease and protect our communities. Residents should ensure that they: Wash their hands frequently with soap and water.Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. Stay home from work or school if they are sick. Stay active and walk everyday to boost immunity. Report any suspected cases of diphtheria in their surrounding communities,” the Governor’s spokesperson stated.