The Edo State Government has delivered 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in response to two recent deaths linked to the disease. The vaccines were handed over on Monday by the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole.
Speaking during the handover, Dr. Oshiomhole noted that the state is also receiving support from neighboring Delta State, which contributed an additional 20 doses. He expressed concern about the unusual spread of diphtheria, as even fully vaccinated individuals and those above five years old are now being infected.
“We are working in collaboration with the UBTH and National Centre for Disease Control. We have spoken with the DG of NCDC and he graciously released 70 doses of anti-diphtheria,” Oshiomhole said. “We also reached out to Delta State Ministry of Health and they have been able to give us 20 doses.”
The commissioner said the state is still analyzing why the disease is affecting those who were believed to have full immunisation protection. He pointed out the unusual case of a 14-year-old with diphtheria, which prompted the government to rethink its strategy on immunisation.
Oshiomhole added that the government had asked the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to approve the vaccination of children older than five. He noted that in light of recent developments, there may be a need to extend vaccination to adults, especially healthcare workers.
In addition to vaccines, the governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, approved the provision of hospital beds, fittings, and other materials to support UBTH’s emergency unit. There are also plans to assist with the medical bills of affected patients.
Prof. Stanley Okugbo, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at UBTH, along with Dr. Fidelis Eki-Udoko, Deputy Chairman and Consultant at the Children Emergency Unit, received the commissioner at the hospital. They expressed gratitude for the prompt support from the state government.
Dr. Eki-Udoko said all patients receiving treatment for diphtheria are showing signs of improvement. He encouraged the public to be alert to early symptoms and to report them promptly to health facilities for timely care.
