At least ten children have died following a fresh outbreak of diphtheria in Agaie and Bida local government areas of Niger State.
The affected children were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Bida, where they died despite medical intervention. Local sources suggest additional deaths may have occurred in rural communities within the two LGAs, though the exact toll remains unconfirmed.
The outbreak has triggered anxiety among residents, with calls for urgent government action to stem the spread. A Bida resident, who spoke anonymously, appealed for immediate supplies of drugs and vaccines.
“This is a life-and-death situation. We’re pleading with the state government to urgently send drugs to the general hospitals in Bida and Agaie to prevent further spread,” the resident said.
Confirming the outbreak, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Health Care, Mohammed Gana, said emergency response measures were underway in collaboration with health partners.
He noted that surveillance has been intensified, with efforts to distribute medications and curb further transmission.
Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, primarily affects the throat and respiratory tract.
If untreated, it can release deadly toxins that damage vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and nervous system, posing the greatest threat to children.
Health officials stressed that routine immunization remains the most effective prevention.
The Niger State Ministry of Health urged parents to ensure their children complete the diphtheria vaccine series and encouraged the public to promptly report suspected cases to health facilities.
(Channels Tv)
