Taraba Records First Diphtheria Case, One Death in Bali

 

By Thomas Samuel

Taraba State has recorded its first confirmed case of diphtheria, with the disease claiming the life of a patient in Bali Local Government Area.

The State Epidemiologist and Coordinator of Health Security, Dr. Udi Aketemo, disclosed this in an interview with our reporter in Jalingo.

Dr. Aketemo said the confirmed case was recorded in Bali, but the patient died from the bacterial infection before comprehensive clinical management could prevent the fatal outcome.

He said the state initially faced difficulties in diagnosing suspected cases due to a lack of appropriate diagnostic facilities.

According to him, the challenge has now been addressed following the deployment of testing kits and specialised laboratory equipment to the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.

The development, he said, would strengthen Taraba’s capacity to detect and confirm suspected diphtheria cases more rapidly.

Dr. Aketemo disclosed that fourteen suspected cases were subsequently identified and tested, but all fourteen samples returned negative.

He said the Ministry of Health had activated its public health surveillance system to contain the disease and prevent further transmission, with particular attention being paid to Bali and surrounding communities.

The surveillance system is expected to track suspected cases, monitor high-risk communities and facilitate rapid medical intervention where necessary.

With the confirmation of the case, Taraba has joined the growing number of states in Nigeria battling diphtheria, amid ongoing national efforts to contain the vaccine-preventable disease.

Health officials are urging parents and caregivers across the state, particularly in Bali, to ensure that children are fully vaccinated under the routine immunisation programme.

Residents are also advised to report suspected symptoms, including severe sore throat, fever and difficulty breathing, to the nearest health facility without delay.

Authorities say sustained surveillance, early detection and community awareness will be critical to preventing further spread of diphtheria in the state.