The Imo State Government has confirmed an outbreak of diphtheria in Mbutu, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, and assured residents that swift actions are being taken to contain the situation.
The state’s Ministry of Health disclosed that several cases have been identified, with laboratory confirmation for some.
In a statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, the government revealed that its rapid response mechanisms have been activated to manage the outbreak effectively.
“We understand the concerns this may raise among residents, but we reassure the public that the situation is under control,” Dr. Egu stated.
According to the statement, the Ministry, in collaboration with development partners, has dispatched surveillance and medical response teams to Mbutu to ensure the timely identification, isolation, and treatment of affected individuals.
It further stated that key measures include free treatment for confirmed and suspected cases, active case searches, and contact tracing within the community and its environs, stressing that risk communication campaigns have been launched to educate residents on preventive measures, while diphtheria antitoxins and essential antibiotics have been provided.
“We are also prioritizing targeted immunization for at-risk populations, particularly children,” Dr. Egu emphasized.
The Ministry urged residents of Mbutu and neighboring communities to remain calm and cooperate with health officials on the ground.
“Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, and early detection and treatment are highly effective,” the statement noted.
The Ministry also advised the public to report any symptoms, such as sore throat, fever, difficulty breathing, or neck swelling, to the nearest health facility or to contact the disease surveillance team via 08036718000.
Reassuring the public of the government’s commitment, Dr. Egu said, “The Imo State Ministry of Health remains dedicated to protecting the health and safety of all citizens, in line with the vision of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for a resilient and responsive health system.”
The government pledged to provide regular updates as the situation evolves and called for vigilance and prompt reporting of suspected cases to help curb the spread of the disease.
