Diphtheria: Epidemiologist Urges Vigilance, Prompt Medical Attention In Gombe
An epidemiologist in Gombe, Nigeria, is urging parents to ensure children are vaccinated against diphtheria following a recent surge in cases among children aged four to 15. The official emphasizes that early medical intervention is critical to preventing severe complications and death.
Why it matters
Diphtheria is a preventable but deadly bacterial infection; public health awareness is essential to closing immunization gaps and saving lives.
He made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Friday and urged parents to ensure that children received timely medical attention.
NAN reports that diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Diphtheria can be treated with medications, but can damage the heart, kidneys and the nervous system in advanced stages. It can also be deadly, especially in children.
The epidemiologist, therefore, said recent diphtheria cases recorded in the state involved children between four and 15 years of age.
He added that “we have seen an upsurge in diphtheria cases among children aged four to 15 years; this may be linked to gaps in immunisation coverage, which could have left some children vulnerable to the disease.”
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in