Schools closed in Mbaise as Diphtheria outbreak claims lives of children

Maureen Aguta 

A recent outbreak of diphtheria disease has claimed the lives of several children in less than one week, in Mbuta community, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Dike Godspower, disclosed that the Executive Chairman of Aboh Mbaise LGA, Barr Iheukwumere Alaribe, in his response to the critical situation, has ordered the temporary closure of all nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Mbutu.

According to the LG Chairman the measure aims to help prevent the spread of the contagious disease and ensure the safety of our children.

He disclosed that the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Department of Disease Prevention and Control in the Imo State Ministry of Health, along with health staff from Aboh Mbaise, are actively working to investigate and contain the spread of this unusual disease.

His words, “The local government and relevant agencies have established an isolation center at the Mbutu Health Center and have deployed health workers to quarantine children who may have been exposed to the disease, ensuring the well-being of our community.”

Alaribe said in view of the outbreak of the contagious disease, “parents who have not yet vaccinated their children are strongly urged to do so without delay. Vaccinations are crucial for preventing the spread of diseases and protecting our children’s health.”

“We encourage the public to remain calm and cooperate with the relevant authorities as we work to control this outbreak. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” he said.