By Funmi Adeleke

Following the renewed outbreak of Diphtheria infections in some parts of Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered the immediate activation of the State Emergency Response Centre to curb any further spread, launch contact tracing and treat the infected residents.

A statement by Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed indicates that the Governor gave the directive after a situation report from the state Ministry of Health on the outbreak which has claimed one life at Osogbo with other suspected cases under testing.

The Governor also directed emergency treatment of the infected noting that the National Centre for Disease Control have been contacted for exchange of information and technical support.

He assured the people of proactive steps being taken to nip in the bud any widespread escalation of the outbreak advising them to immunize their children and wards.

The Ministry of health had earlier briefed the Governor on the recent resurgence of diphtheria in the state, informing him that a suspected Diphtheria patient aged 6 years was said to have developed the sign and symptoms on the 25th of June, 2023 and died of the infection on July 7th.

According to the Ministry, detailed case investigation, contact tracing, line-listing, follow up and Active Case Search in the community of the index case and retroactive case search at the Health facilities within the community are ongoing.

The Ministry further advised members of the public to ensure the children and wards are fully vaccinated, avoid crowded environments, consult doctors in case of symptoms and eat more fruits and vegetables.

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