Schools Closed In Imo As Diphtheria Ravages Aboh Mbaise LG, Deaths Recorded

By Ayodele Oni

Public and private schools in some parts of Imo state have been closed following a reported outbreak of diphtheria, a disease which primarily affects the nose and throat but can also impact the skin.

The outbreak has been reported at Mbutu Community, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, and has led to the deaths of six children within one week,  prompting an immediate closure of all schools in the area.

The Chairman of Aboh Mbaise Local Council, Iheukwumere Alaribe, confirmed the development in a statement, adding that the Local Government has taken a swift action to curb further spread.

“Schools in Mbutu have been temporarily closed, and parents have been advised to keep their children indoors. Diphtheria claimed the lives of the children less than a week after its outbreak.”

The Chairman stated that the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Department of Disease Prevention and Control in the Imo State Ministry of Health, and health workers from Aboh Mbaise  were working tirelessly to investigate and contain the outbreak.

“An isolation centre has been established at Mbutu Health Centre, with health workers deployed to quarantine children, who may have been exposed to the disease and to provide care for affected families.”

Alaribe also urged parents to take urgent steps to vaccinate their children.

“In light of this outbreak, parents who have not yet vaccinated their children are strongly urged to do so without delay.

“Vaccinations are crucial for preventing the spread of diseases and protecting our children’s health.”

The Chairman appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities.

“We encourage the public to remain calm and cooperate with the relevant authorities as we work to control this outbreak. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”

Diphtheria, a highly infectious disease caused by the toxin-producing bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily affects the nose and throat but can also impact the skin.

It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or via direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects.