Kano State Forms Committee to Combat Diphtheria Outbreak

The Kano State Government has established a Special Committee on Diphtheria Outbreak Response to address the diphtheria outbreak that has persisted since December 2022. The committee was inaugurated on Friday by the Commissioner of Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, who emphasized the need for a coordinated response to prevent further spread of the disease.

He highlighted the importance of vaccination and early medical attention, urging parents to ensure eligible children receive vaccinations and to seek immediate medical help for suspected cases. The committee comprises members selected for their experience and competence, including representatives from the state government, local government councils, and emirate councils.

Their responsibilities include early reporting of suspected cases, enhanced surveillance, and vaccination in areas with low coverage. Professor Muhammad Adamu Abbas, the committee's Chairman and Director-General of the Kano State Centre for Disease Control, assured the commissioner of their commitment to achieving the committee's goals.

The outbreak has reportedly claimed the lives of over 50 children in Rano Local Government Area.