The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has disclosed that Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Borno, Kaduna, and Bauchi have recorded no fewer than 600 deaths and over 14,000 suspected cases from the diphtheria outbreak.
It was also said that over 10,000 diphtheria cases occurred in Kano, with over 97% of the cases occurring in the aforementioned states and over 73% being children aged 1 to 14 years. Furthermore, 80% of those affected have not received any vaccinations.
The Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr Faisal Shuaib, in his welcome remarks at the Review Meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee (NTLC) on Wednesday in Abuja, disclosed that 73% of the reported diphtheria cases are children aged 1 to 14 years, and 80% of those affected have not received any vaccinations.
Shuaib, therefore, maintained that this revelation underscores the dire need for the NTLC and all stakeholders to intensify community mobilisation, awaken public awareness, and foster acceptance of vaccination services.
He also explained that diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can prove fatal without prompt intervention, adding that it spreads through the air, much like the spectre of COVID-19.
“We can, however, mitigate its transmission through non-pharmaceutical measures such as wearing facemasks, practising vigilant handwashing, and maintaining physical distance from affected individuals. However, we must be cautious to avoid stigmatising or discriminating against those afflicted,” he said.
Shuaib further disclosed that at the peak of the outbreak, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare established the Diphtheria Emergency Task Team with the objective of bringing the outbreak under control.
“One of his charges was to involve the NTLC in the response effort. I am happy to report that during my field visit across Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, and Kano States, the Royal Highnesses have been active in engaging their communities to ensure they are well informed about the importance of vaccination.”
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our Royal Fathers in the affected states for their unwavering support for the healthcare teams at all levels. However, we must redouble our efforts in educating our communities about the vital importance of routine vaccinations,” he charged.
Shuaib also disclosed that the agency will roll out HPV vaccines on October 24. He said the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), is embarking on a comprehensive campaign to introduce HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines in schools and healthcare centres.
He also explained that this endeavour represents a giant stride in the country’s ongoing mission to safeguard the health and future of the nation’s youth.
“Scientifically proven to prevent certain types of cancer, the inclusion of HPV vaccines in our vaccination programmes promises to bestow immeasurable benefits upon public health.”
“However, the introduction of the vaccine is only one prong of the three-pronged approach to eliminating HPV and reducing morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer. The other two prongs involve early screening and quality management.”
He, therefore, expressed confidence that NTLC will ensure the dissemination of accurate information about this vaccine through community channels, educational institutions, and outreach programmes.
“We will work hand in hand with the State Primary Health Care Development Agencies, providing unwavering support and necessary resources to facilitate the successful rollout of this vital vaccine.”
“In the ensuing months, let us join forces with your State Primary Health Care Development Agencies (SPHCDA) and educational authorities to guarantee the seamless introduction of HPV vaccines, leveraging our traditional platforms to deliver precise and essential information about these vaccines.”
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