By David Simeon
The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Oshiomhole, confirmed the possible the outbreak of diphtheria. This was due to the increasing number of cases presenting symptoms consistent with the bacteria infection.
The outbreak was initially misdiagnosed and treated as malaria due to the similarities of their early symptoms, and has reportedly been a significant cause of death over the past month. This prompted an emergency health notice circulated within the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). The notice, signed by several senior medical professionals including Dr. Benson Okwara, highlighted a concerning trend in patient presentations.
Initial findings indicate that affected patients commonly present with high-grade fever, gastrointestinal symptoms (such as diarrhea, vomiting, and severe epigastric pain), joint pain, respiratory distress with reduced oxygen saturation, as well as skin manifestations like purpura and ecchymosis.
Other clinical indicators include leukocytosis, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and signs of renal impairment. In severe cases, patients have required hemodialysis, underscoring the gravity of the condition.
In response, Dr. Okwara has urged all healthcare professionals to strictly observe standard precautionary measures when attending to patients, emphasizing the critical need to protect frontline medical personnel.
Confirmed hospitals across Benin City have confirmed similar cases, raising alarms about the potential spread of the infection.
Although full laboratory confirmation is still pending, the state health authorities have begun contact tracing, case management, and issued public health advisories to prevent a widespread outbreak.
It is advised to report unusual symptoms promptly and visit a professional hospital to make to make this report. The Ministry of Health has reassured residents that proactive steps are being taken to manage the situation and safeguard public health.