Sokoto Govt Alerts Schools Over Diphtheria, Orders Immediate Reporting of Suspected Cases
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sokoto State Government has directed principals and authorities of basic and secondary schools across the state to intensify health surveillance following reports of diphtheria cases in neighbouring states.
The directive was issued by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala who urged school heads to remain vigilant and closely monitor the health conditions of students and staff.
According to a statement by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer Ibrahim Muhammad Iya, any student or staff member exhibiting symptoms suspected to be associated with diphtheria should be referred immediately to the nearest health facility, while the ministry should also be notified.
The ministry said the precautionary measures were necessary to safeguard the health and wellbeing of students and staff across the state.
Diphtheria is a potentially serious infectious disease. Symptoms may include sore throat, hoarseness, mild fever, chills, swollen neck glands, weakness, fatigue, runny nose, cough, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and a thick greyish membrane in the throat. Symptoms may develop between two and five days after exposure.
School authorities were advised not to delay seeking medical attention where diphtheria is suspected.
The ministry listed Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), Specialist Hospital, and Amanawa General Hospital, all in Sokoto, among facilities available for prompt medical assessment and treatment.
In addition, principals were directed to reinforce hygiene measures in schools including regular hand washing and proper environmental sanitation.
Parents and guardians were also encouraged to ensure that their children receive recommended vaccinations and to promptly seek medical advice if they develop symptoms associated with the disease.
The ministry appealed to students, parents, teachers and school authorities to remain calm while maintaining a high level of vigilance.
It also urged all stakeholders to cooperate with health authorities and ensure that suspected cases are reported without delay to enable early assessment, treatment and appropriate public-health response.
