The recent outbreak of diphtheria infections in parts of Osun State has prompted Governor Ademola Adeleke to take immediate action. In response to the outbreak, he has ordered the reactivation of the State Emergency Response Centre to prevent further spread of the disease. Diphtheria is a severe infection caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a toxin that can lead to serious complications such as difficulty breathing, heart rhythm problems, and even death. Vaccination is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent diphtheria in infants, children, teens, and adults.
The Emergency Response Centre will be responsible for various tasks, including contact tracing and treatment of infected residents. Governor Adeleke’s directive came after receiving a situation report from the state Ministry of Health regarding the outbreak. It has been reported that one person has already died from diphtheria in Osogbo, and there are other suspected cases currently being tested.
The governor emphasized the urgency of the situation and directed that immediate follow-up be conducted on the confirmed case in Osogbo to identify and monitor individuals who had been in contact with the victim. Emergency treatment will also be provided to infected individuals. The state government is in contact with the National Centre for Disease Control to exchange information and receive technical support.
Governor Adeleke urged the public to remain vigilant and follow the precautions that will soon be issued by the Ministry of Health. He also stressed the importance of immunizing children and emphasized that the government is actively addressing the outbreak to prevent its further escalation.
Prior to the governor’s directive, the state Ministry of Health had briefed him on the resurgence of diphtheria in the state. The ministry reported that a suspected diphtheria patient, a 6-year-old, developed symptoms on June 25, 2023, and unfortunately, passed away from the infection on July 7th.