The Kaduna State Government has confirmed the outbreak of Diphtheria Disease, a serious infection of the nose and throat in Kafanchan, Jema’a local government area of the State.

A Statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mohammed Lawal Shehu says the State Ministry of Health confirmed the cases after several reports on residents of Takau Ward, Kafanchan A and Kafanchan B wards exhibiting symptoms of the disease such as difficulty in breathing, high fever, cough, general body weakness, sore throat, and neck swelling.

The Statement explained that Governor Uba Sani immediately directed the State Ministry of Health to send an emergency team to investigate the cases upon learning about the unfortunate loss of lives in the affected communities.

“A preliminary report from the Ministry revealed that the outbreak of diphtheria in Kafanchan its first recorded case in the beginning of July, 2023”

The statement added that part of the efforts taken by the Kaduna State Ministry of Health so far include transporting affected people to hospitals for adequate management, conducting active case searches, tracing contacts, and conducting intense community awareness in all impacted communities and neighboring areas.

It urged Kaduna State citizens to take precautions to avoid the spread of the disease and to protect their 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.”

The statement appeals to residents to report any suspected cases of diphtheria in their surrounding communities for prompt action.

While commending the health officials for their rapid response to the health emergency, Governor Uba Sani advised them to continue to carry out their duties carefully to ensure that the sickness is contained and then eradicated.