Taraba Records First Diphtheria Fatality

By Godwin Agia, Taraba

Taraba State has reported its first confirmed case of diphtheria, resulting in a fatality in the Bali Local Government Area.

The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Udi Aketemo, confirmed this development during a telephone interview with our correspondent on Wednesday in Jalingo, stating that the patient succumbed before comprehensive clinical management could be initiated.

Dr. Aketemo noted that the state initially encountered challenges in diagnosing suspected cases due to insufficient diagnostic facilities. However, this issue has been addressed with the deployment of testing kits and specialized laboratory equipment to the Federal Medical Centre in Jalingo.

“The case was recorded in Bali, and health authorities have intensified surveillance efforts to ascertain whether there are additional infections and to prevent further transmission,” he stated.

“The enhanced diagnostic capacity will enable us to test and confirm suspected cases more swiftly, facilitating timely intervention,” he added.

Dr. Aketemo disclosed that 14 suspected cases were subsequently identified and tested, all of which returned negative results.

He further indicated that the Ministry of Health has activated its public health surveillance system, focusing particularly on Bali and neighboring communities.

“The surveillance entails tracking suspected cases, monitoring communities deemed at risk, and ensuring prompt medical intervention when necessary,” he explained.

Additionally, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bordiya Buma, stated that the ministry, in collaboration with the state government, is implementing measures to prevent the disease from spreading to other regions of the state.

Dr. Buma assured residents that the government is actively working to contain the situation and avert an outbreak.

Health officials have urged parents and caregivers, especially those in Bali, to ensure that children are fully vaccinated under the routine immunization program.

Residents are also advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as severe sore throat, fever, or difficulty breathing.

National Newsbreak reports that this confirmation places Taraba among Nigerian states currently addressing diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable bacterial disease, while surveillance efforts continue in Bali and surrounding communities.