The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, has held an emergency meeting with Heads of Health Institutions, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other key health stakeholders in the State.
The meeting which was held at the Ministry’s premises in Benin City, followed an official report from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), confirming five cases of diphtheria, including two deaths. The situation raised serious concern and called for urgent action across the Health Sector.
According to him, “Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by bacteria. It mostly affects the nose and throat and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Without early treatment, it can lead to serious health problems or death”.
Dr. Oshiomhole warned that the outbreak, along with other rising health issues such as viral infections and drug resistance, highlights the need for quick and joint efforts to protect the public.
The meeting focused on setting up a rapid response team, improving coordination across State and Local levels, reviewing surveillance data, tracing contacts, managing cases, engaging communities and ensuring vaccine availability.
The Commissioner commended the management of UBTH for its swift response and thanked all partners for their continued support, adding that the Governor supports all necessary interventions to stop the spread of the disease and keep communities safe.
Adesuwa Edopkayi
Media Officer
Ministry of Health
PHOTO CAPTION
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole addressing Heads of Health Institutions at his office in Benin-City.
