The Kaduna State Ministry of Health has confirmed cases of diphtheria disease in some communities in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of the state.
This confirmation was disclosed In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammad Lawal Shehu, declaring that “A preliminary report from the Ministry revealed that Kafanchan had its first recorded case at the beginning of July 2023.”
This came after several reports were made about residents in Takau Ward, Kafanchan A, and Kafanchan B wards showing symptoms listed as difficulty breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.
Governor Sani had directed the Ministry of Health to send an emergency team to investigate the cases after reports of loss of life in the affected communities.
Appreciating the health officials prompt response to the health emergency, the Governor called on them to continue to carry out their tasks diligently to ensure that the disease is contained and subsequently eradicated in the state.
It was noted that actions taken by the Ministry so far have included 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.
He explained that, in line with these efforts, residents of Kaduna State are admonished to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease and protect their communities.
While advising the residents on personal hygiene, he said they should ensure they wash their hands frequently with soap and water, avoid close contact with people who are sick, and cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
