By Isaac Mission
The Anambra State Government has commenced a statewide public awareness campaign on diphtheria as part of efforts to strengthen disease prevention and keep residents informed about the infection.
The campaign follows reports of diphtheria outbreaks in some parts of Nigeria and is aimed at improving public understanding of the disease, its symptoms, modes of transmission and available preventive measures.
The Director of Public Health and Disease Control in the Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr Afam Anaeme, disclosed this in Awka on Monday.
Anaeme said the awareness programme was launched following a directive from the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, to intensify public education on diphtheria and its potential health consequences.
He explained that information from the state's disease surveillance network indicated that diphtheria cases were being reported in parts of the country, making it necessary for communities in Anambra to remain alert and take appropriate precautions.
Despite the development, the health official reassured residents that the state had not recorded any confirmed case of diphtheria as of Monday.
He urged residents not to panic but encouraged them to remain vigilant, observe preventive guidelines and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms associated with the disease.
Diphtheria is a potentially serious bacterial infection, primarily caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It can spread through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or engages in close interaction with others.
Anaeme identified some common symptoms as sore throat, mild fever, weakness, swelling around the neck and difficulty swallowing or breathing. In severe cases, the infection can affect vital organs, including the heart, kidneys and nervous system.
He stressed that vaccination remains the strongest form of protection against diphtheria, noting that the vaccine is incorporated into the pentavalent vaccine routinely given to children at six, 10 and 14 weeks of age.
The director also advised residents to maintain good personal hygiene, wash their hands regularly and limit unnecessary contact with people suspected of having the infection. He said the use of face masks could also help reduce the risk of respiratory transmission in appropriate circumstances.
According to him, the Ministry of Health has stepped up its awareness activities through radio jingles, social media messaging and the distribution of information, education and communication materials to communities across the state.
The ministry is also working with state-owned radio and television stations to provide platforms for health professionals to educate the public about diphtheria and other respiratory infections.
Anaeme assured residents that health authorities would continue to monitor the situation through strengthened disease surveillance and respond to emerging developments.
He urged residents to take advantage of available vaccination services, follow recommended preventive measures and report suspected cases to health authorities without delay.
