By Moses Oluma
Diphtheria, a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection, has become a major concern in various parts of the world, including Nigeria. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) was first notified of suspected diphtheria cases in Kano and Lagos states on December 1st, 2022. On January 20th, 2023, the NCDC officially declared the situation an outbreak of diphtheria, classifying it as one of the priority diseases in Nigeria. According to the latest report by the NCDC, a total of 2,455 cases have been reported from 24 states in Nigeria as of July 20th.
Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Infected individuals may experience symptoms such as a sore throat, mild fever, and the formation of a thick, grayish-white membrane in the throat and tonsils. If left untreated, diphtheria can lead to severe complications affecting the heart and nervous system, posing a significant risk to life.
To combat the spread of diphtheria and protect yourself and your community, here are essential safety tips:
Ensure proper immunization
Ensure that you and your family members are up-to-date with diphtheria vaccination. The diphtheria vaccine is often administered with tetanus and pertussis vaccines as DTaP for children and Tdap for adolescents and adults. Routine vaccination is the most effective way to protect against diphtheria.
Cultivate and maintain good hygiene practices
Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places. Proper hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Cover mouth and nose
If you or anyone around you is sick, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.
Individuals with symptoms should isolate
If you or a family member show symptoms of diphtheria or any contagious illness, avoid going to school, work, or public places until cleared by a healthcare professional.
Seek medical attention
If you suspect diphtheria or encounter symptoms such as a severe sore throat, difficulty breathing, or a grayish-white membrane in the throat, seek immediate medical attention.
The NCDC has demonstrated commitment to promoting vaccination campaigns, educating citizens on Diphtheria, and providing necessary healthcare facilities in response to the outbreak. However, more needs to be done, especially in rural communities, to adequately contain the disease.
Community awareness and cooperation are vital in preventing the spread of diphtheria. Local leaders, healthcare workers, and community members should collaborate with the NCDC to disseminate information about prevention, vaccination, and the importance of early medical intervention.
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