Dr. Habu Dahiru, the Gombe State Commissioner of Health, has announced that the state’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre is on high alert due to confirmed and suspected cases of diphtheria in Herwagana Ward, Gombe.

Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, is a serious illness that affects the throat and respiratory system and can be fatal if not treated. It is preventable through vaccination.

Dr. Dahiru reported that the state has identified three suspected cases and one confirmed case of diphtheria. He emphasized the availability of vaccines at Primary Health Centres throughout Gombe State, particularly for children, and urged parents and guardians to ensure their children are promptly vaccinated to protect them from this dangerous disease.

He also called for increased awareness and proactive efforts to control the spread of diphtheria in the affected areas. Dr. Dahiru noted, “The confirmed case involved a child who had not been vaccinated against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus, which are covered by the pentavalent vaccine. This vaccine, administered in three doses, is essential for protecting children from these severe diseases.”