An unconfirmed number of children have been confirmed dead in Mbutu Community in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State following a sudden outbreak of diphtheria.
According to the LG chairman Iheukwumere Alaribe, the outbreak has claimed the lives of multiple children within a week
Iheukwumere, confirmed this in a press statement, issued on May 26, 2025. The statement also noted that an order has been given for the immediate closure of all nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Mbutu to halt further spread of the disease.
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Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Most infections are asymptomatic or have a mild clinical course, it mostly affects the nose, throat and sometimes, the skin of an individual. It spreads through the air via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects.
However, Iheukwumere also disclosed that health officials from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Imo State Ministry of Health’s Department of Disease Prevention and Control, and the Aboh Mbaise Health Authority have launched a coordinated response, adding that an isolation centre has been set up at the Mbutu Health Centre, with health personnel deployed to quarantine affected or at-risk children.
“In light of this outbreak, 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,” the chairman stated.
The chairman’s spokesman, Dike, appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities.
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