The Edo State Government has confirmed an outbreak of diphtheria, with two fatalities already recorded.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, made this known on Tuesday during an emergency response meeting in Benin City, the state capital.
According to him, five cases have been confirmed at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), raising alarm over the rapid spread of the infection.
“This is a serious cause for concern,” Dr. Oshiomhole said, adding that the government has activated swift containment measures. These include the deployment of a rapid response team, enhanced disease surveillance, intensified contact tracing, increased public awareness, and the provision of vaccines.
Residents have been advised to report early symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or difficulty breathing and to avoid close contact with anyone showing signs of illness.
The government assured citizens of its readiness to contain the outbreak and urged the public to remain calm while taking necessary precautions.
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