Imo Diphtheria Outbreak: “Let’s Save The Children” – Ihedioha

A former Governor of Imo State, The Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has reacted to the outbreak of diphtheria in Aboh Local Government Area of Imo State.

Within the past week, the infectious disease has caused six fatalities, and forced the Chairman of the Local Government Area to close down all schools in the LGA – Primary and Secondary – till further notice.

On Children’s Day, May 27, no celebration was held in the area.

In a statement, Ihedioha condoled with the parents of the late children and appreciated all those, at various levels, who he identified as working tirelessly to contain the situation and raise awareness.

The full text of his statement titled ” Let’s Save The Children reads:

“Umunnem Ndi Imo

“I have followed actively the ongoing infectious disease outbreak in parts of our state. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their precious children to this disease outbreak. May the Almighty God console you all.

“I appreciate our government officials, traditional rulers, Town Union Executives, religious leaders, indigenous Health Professionals and all leaders of thought at various levels who have worked tirelessly in raising awareness and making useful contacts towards containing this unfortunate disease outbreak. As we’ve been informed, the infectious disease outbreak was caused by diphtheria, a bacterial infection that mainly affects young children. It is completely preventable by administering the full doses of the vaccines to our newborns. This outbreak now clearly shows that there are some children in our homes who have never received the DTP vaccine or did not receive the complete three doses of it for full effectiveness, referred to as zero-dose children. Some parents, painfully, have been neglecting this important task of presenting their newborns for childhood immunization according to the NPI schedule. Let’s learn from this unfortunate incident and comply henceforth with all health advisories as they are scientifically proven. The disease is also said to be treatable when identified early and appropriate therapy is instituted. This means that we are not in a hopeless situation.

“I, therefore, urge all citizens not to panic but to cooperate with the health authorities as they work diligently to contain this outbreak. Please, do as the professionals instructs: Let’s follow science even as we pray to Almighty God for divine protection and healing. Let’s avoid unproven remedies that may cause further complications for those affected. We should, as a people, pay greater attention to personal and environmental hygiene, including proper aeration of homes to avoid overcrowding, as prevention is always cheaper, easier and better than a cure. We should also visit health facilities for proper medical attention rather than resorting to self-medication.

“This one, too, shall surely pass. We shall overcome.

“Emeka Ihedioha CON, KSC,
Omenkeahuruanya”