The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced an outbreak of a highly contagious infection, diphtheria in Abuja, its capital. This comes after the death of a four-year-old.
Symptoms of the infection include difficulties in breathing and heart problems that can be fatal, particularly in children and some adults who are not vaccinated.
The NCDC said there had been multiple outbreaks across the country since late last year, with almost 800 confirmed cases and at least 80 deaths.
Despite diphtheria being covered by the country’s routine childhood immunisation programme, it still marvels how the infection erupted.
The public has been asked to remain vigilant and ensure that people with symptoms to report early to health facilities for prompt diagnosis and treatment.