The Edo State Government has confirmed a fresh outbreak of diphtheria in parts of the state and has rolled out a comprehensive emergency response plan aimed at swiftly containing the disease and safeguarding public health.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua, the government assured residents that the situation is under control and that there is no cause for panic.
Governor Okpebholo, the statement said, is personally coordinating surveillance and containment efforts alongside the State Ministry of Health and other critical stakeholders.
“The administration has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the situation,” the statement read.
It added that life-saving vaccines have already been procured for a statewide vaccination campaign, targeting vulnerable populations, especially children, who are most at risk.
The state government disclosed that hospitals across Edo have been placed on high alert.
Medical staff have been instructed to intensify case detection, ensure prompt isolation, and follow proper clinical management protocols for suspected diphtheria cases in line with both national and global standards.
“We are also ramping up public awareness campaigns via radio, television, social media, and grassroots outreach,” the statement added.
The public is being educated about the symptoms of diphtheria, including sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and difficulty breathing, with a strong advisory to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility.
In a proactive move, the government is working closely with school proprietors to establish early warning systems, conduct health screenings, and enforce hygiene standards to protect schoolchildren.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, is leading the frontline medical response, coordinating the activities of the emergency health task force and providing regular updates to the public.
Governor Okpebholo has also convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting involving representatives from the NCDC, WHO, traditional institutions, religious bodies, civil society groups, and community organizations to synchronize efforts and strengthen the response framework.
Reassuring the public, the government said it is fully committed to ending the outbreak swiftly and upholding its long-standing reputation for handling public health crises.
“Edo State has a strong track record in managing public health emergencies, and this instance is no exception,” the statement said.
Citizens have been urged to cooperate with health officials, take the vaccination campaign seriously, and remain calm but vigilant.
“Edo State remains committed to the health and well-being of its people and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that this outbreak is swiftly and permanently addressed,” the statement concluded.