Sokoto Residents Alarmed by Child Deaths from Diphtheria

Residents of Sokoto State have raised concerns over suspected child deaths attributed to a diphtheria outbreak. Parents are particularly alarmed and are calling for immediate action to prevent further fatalities.

The state government had previously alerted residents and school authorities to take precautions against the disease. A resident from Kwalkwalawa reported that his six-year-old son died after symptoms worsened, and the family turned to traditional medicine due to a lack of adequate hospital treatment.

Additionally, residents of Rikina village reported two child deaths linked to similar symptoms. A medical doctor in the state confirmed the alarming situation, emphasizing the need for a stronger response from health authorities, including early detection and treatment.

Residents are demanding regular updates from the state government regarding confirmed and suspected cases, deaths, and treatment facilities. Efforts to contact the state Ministry of Health for comments were unsuccessful, but Dr. Sifawa from the Sokoto State Primary Healthcare Development Agency directed inquiries to the Director of Disease Control.