Benin City – The Edo State Government has swiftly activated an emergency public health response following confirmed cases of diphtheria in parts of the state.
This was announced on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua.
According to the statement, Governor Monday Okpebholo is personally leading efforts to coordinate a comprehensive response involving the State Ministry of Health and other key stakeholders. The objective is to contain the outbreak and protect the health and safety of all residents.
Key measures underway include the immediate procurement and distribution of life-saving vaccines, with a statewide vaccination campaign prioritizing vulnerable groups, especially children. Additionally, the government is intensifying public sensitization through radio, television, social media, and community outreach platforms to inform citizens about symptoms, prevention, and early treatment.
Hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert. Medical personnel are being briefed and equipped to manage suspected cases in line with global best practices. Surveillance systems are also being reinforced to support rapid contact tracing and effective disease monitoring.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, is at the forefront of the state’s response, working with the emergency health task force to track developments and issue timely updates to the public.
Efforts are also being made to safeguard school environments. School owners and proprietors are working with the government to implement early warning systems, enforce hygiene practices, and conduct health screenings to protect children.
Governor Okpebholo has further convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting with representatives from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and community groups to harmonize containment efforts.
The government reassured the public that the situation is under control and urged residents to remain calm but vigilant. People experiencing symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands, or breathing difficulties are encouraged to visit the nearest healthcare facility promptly.
Governor Okpebholo also called on citizens to cooperate fully with health officials and actively participate in the vaccination and awareness campaigns.
“Edo State has a strong track record in handling public health challenges, and we are leaving no stone unturned in addressing this outbreak quickly and effectively,” the statement read.
