Diphtheria: Oshodi Council Chair Warns Against Large Gathering
The executive chairman of Oshodi-Isolo local government, Otunba Kehinde Almaroof Oloyede has warned residents to be mindful of large gatherings to prevent the spread of Diphtheria in the area.
Diphtheria disease has been found in 18 states of the country, including Lagos.
It is a serious infection caused by a strain of bacteria called Corynebacterium Diphtheria.
The toxin producing parasite causes highly contagious, infectious disease that usually affects the mucous membrane of the nose and throat.
It forms a thick grey matter that covers the back of the throat, making breathing difficult and may results to death. It spreads through airborne respiratory droplets like cough or sneeze and through saliva via kissing or shared drinks.
Symptoms include: chills, fatigue, fever, or malaise, noisy breathing or shortness of breath, rashes or ulcers, hoarseness or impaired voice, difficulty swallowing or soreness, cough, muscle weakness, runny nose, swelling, or swollen lymph nodes.
While thanking God that no case has been reported in the local government, the council chair however urged residents to be careful and be weary of large enclosed gatherings. He implored them to maintain social distance while strictly observing self hygiene of washing their hands and possibly using a noise mask.
He said; “I have just been intimated of the contagious infection called Diphtheria that is currently in 18 states of the federation, Lagos inclusive. While we thank God that we are yet to have any case in our local government, I strongly urge our people to be mindful of large gatherings before it is airborne and spreading fast. They should observed personal hygiene and possibly return to the use of facemask.
As a government, we shall continue to sensitize our people and provide the needed health Infrastructures that will support their well-being.”
