A recent diphtheria outbreak in Kano State has resulted in the deaths of over 40 individuals, predominantly children. Additionally, numerous others have been admitted to hospitals due to the illness.
Journalists who visited the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) on Wednesday at approximately 2:00 PM observed that all three wards were occupied by patients, with many more awaiting consultation.
An unnamed hospital official, who preferred to stay anonymous due to media constraints, indicated that the outbreak has led to a significant daily mortality rate.
“For the past two weeks, there have been daily fatalities from this disease.
“Every day, doctors are seeing a large number of patients. If you visit in the morning or evening, you will find dozens of victims waiting for treatment. The hospital has been continuously busy since the outbreak began,” the official told Daily Trust.
He further explained that the hospital is overwhelmed because many local government area hospitals lack the necessary facilities to manage such cases.
“Most patients are referred here because our facility is the most equipped to handle infectious diseases,” the source added.
A mother whose daughter is receiving treatment at the hospital, Samira Danzaki, narrated that she has been at the facility for two days.
“I brought my daughter here on Sunday after she developed a severe fever and her neck swelled. We were referred to this hospital, and thankfully, she is responding to treatment,” Danzaki said.
A different individual in the waiting area indicated that they were facing significant throat problems following a prior episode of catarrh.
“I sought assistance here because my situation has deteriorated, and I am currently struggling with my throat,” the individual remarked.
Upon inquiry, Samira Sulaiman, the State Hospital Management Board Public Relations Officer, refrained from confirming or denying the account.
She mentioned that the management was convening an emergency meeting and assured our correspondent that a statement would be issued the next day.
