JALINGO — Taraba State has recorded its first confirmed case of diphtheria after a patient in Bali Local Government Area died from the disease.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Udi Aketemo, confirmed the development in a telephone interview with correspondents in Jalingo, explaining that the patient died before comprehensive clinical management could be instituted.
According to him, the state initially faced challenges in diagnosing suspected diphtheria cases due to inadequate diagnostic facilities. He said the situation has now improved following the deployment of testing kits and specialized laboratory equipment to the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.
Aketemo said the confirmed case was recorded in Bali, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance across the area and neighbouring communities to determine whether additional infections exist and prevent further transmission.
“The new diagnostic capacity will enable us to test and confirm suspected cases more rapidly and facilitate timely intervention,” he said.
The epidemiologist disclosed that 14 suspected cases were subsequently identified and tested, but all returned negative.
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He added that the Ministry of Health has activated its public health surveillance system, with particular attention being paid to Bali and surrounding communities.
“The surveillance involves tracking suspected cases, monitoring communities considered to be at risk and ensuring prompt medical intervention when necessary,” Aketemo explained.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bordiya Buma, said the ministry was taking measures to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the state.
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Buma assured residents that the government was working to contain the situation and prevent a wider outbreak.
Health officials have urged parents and caregivers, particularly those in Bali Local Government Area, to ensure that children are fully vaccinated through the routine immunization programme.
Residents have also been advised to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with diphtheria, including severe sore throat, fever and difficulty breathing.
Authorities are expected to continue surveillance and testing as part of efforts to identify any possible additional cases and contain the disease.
