Tension Breaks Out In Abia After Diphtheria Hits Nearby Imo

There is palpable tension in Abia State, following the reported outbreak of Diphtheria in its neighbouring Imo
Already, the Abia State government has sent out an urgent health advisory to residents over the outbreak of the disease.
The state Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, has urged residents to be causious as , “There is need for them to take preventive measures to ensure that, even if the disease spreads to the state, it will not cause much damage.”
Kanu briefed reporters on the outcome of the state’s Executive Council deliberations over the outbreak of disease. 
His words, “Like they say, prevention is better than cure. Consequently, Abians are advised to ensure they take some preventive measures.
“These preventive measures will entail:
Number one, vaccination for children and vaccination for adults who are not sure of their health status or diphtheria status.
Number two will be that parents must be very vigilant during this period to ensure that any child who shows any symptom or onset of the disease is taken to the hospital immediately.
There is a need for good hygiene during this period, good hygiene practices, and this entails washing of hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or handling or touching potentially contaminated materials.”  
Abians were also advised to cover their mouths or noses when coughing.
People should avoid close contact with individuals who are sick or show any symptoms of sickness. According to him, community vigilance is required at this time.
Citizens are advised to report any suspected cases of diphtheria to local health authorities within their vicinity or, better said, to the State Ministry of Health. Community and religious leaders, teachers, and school authorities, as well as royal fathers, should furthermore, help to disseminate this important information.
The Commissioner also spoke on travel precautions to avoid contacting or spreading Diptheria.
According to Kanu, "If you must travel to or from an affected area, please ensure that your vaccination status is up to date. The Federal Ministry of Health has declared the state free of river blindness after 30 years of mass drug administration to control the disease.
“With this declaration, Abia State has left the list of states where the disease had been endemic for years”.