From Staff Writer
The Edo State Government has placed all hospitals across the state on red alert following the confirmation of a diphtheria outbreak in certain parts of the state. This move is part of a broader emergency response aimed at swiftly containing the spread of the highly contagious disease.
Governor Monday Okpebholo made the announcement through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Fred Itua, on Wednesday in Benin City.
According to the statement, Governor Okpebholo’s administration is “fully aware” of the emerging public health threat and has activated a state-wide emergency health response. This includes the mobilisation of resources, deployment of medical experts, and intensified surveillance to curb the disease’s transmission.
“Governor Okpebholo is personally coordinating the public health response alongside the State Ministry of Health and key partners,” the statement read. “We are taking all necessary steps to protect the health and well-being of our residents.”
Among the key interventions currently underway is the procurement of life-saving vaccines to facilitate an immediate, state-wide vaccination campaign, with a focus on vulnerable groups, especially children.
Public enlightenment efforts have also been intensified, with awareness campaigns running across radio, television, social media, and community outreach platforms. These aim to educate the public about the symptoms of diphtheria—including sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands, and difficulty breathing—and emphasise the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
The government has directed all hospitals to intensify case detection and clinical management while ensuring strict adherence to national and international protocols for handling infectious diseases. Medical personnel are being trained and equipped to manage suspected cases efficiently, and the state’s disease surveillance network is being expanded to enable rapid contact tracing.
Edo State’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, is said to be leading the medical task force’s operations and providing the public with real-time updates as the situation develops.
In a proactive move, school owners and administrators are working closely with the government to establish early warning systems, uphold hygiene standards, and carry out health screenings aimed at protecting pupils.
Furthermore, Governor Okpebholo has convened a high-level emergency meeting involving the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), traditional rulers, religious bodies, civil society organisations, and community groups to coordinate a unified response.
The government has urged residents not to panic, assuring the public that the situation remains under control. “Edo State has a strong record of effectively managing public health emergencies, and this will be no exception,” the statement added.
Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with health officials, participate in the vaccination drive, and immediately report any symptoms associated with diphtheria to the nearest healthcare facility.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health and promised that no effort would be spared in ensuring the outbreak is decisively tackled.
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