By Ella Michaels
In a remarkable display of leadership and collaboration, the Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State has successfully contained a deadly diphtheria outbreak that claimed multiple lives, mainly among children aged 4 to 13. The outbreak, which was first reported in Mbutu Ward, spread to eight other wards, including the prestigious Mater Ecclesiae Seminary School, Nguru Mbaise, where five students were diagnosed with diphtheria and one life was lost.
*Swift Intervention*
The Executive Chairman of Aboh Mbaise, Hon. Barr. Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, spearheaded a mass vaccination campaign on Sunday, June 1st, just before students left for their midterm break. This proactive measure was essential to prevent students from unknowingly spreading the disease to their families and communities. The Aboh Mbaise Health Department, with support from the Imo State Ministry of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners, mobilized quickly to distribute vaccines, administer treatment, and conduct further tracing.
*A Collaborative Effort*
The outbreak presented initially as common sore throats and catarrh before developing into more severe respiratory complications. According to Mr. John Ifeanyi, the LGA's Immunization Officer, about 8 to 10 children lost their lives to the disease. However, thanks to the swift intervention and collaborative efforts, the outbreak is now under control.
*Appreciation and Gratitude*
Parents, students, and health officials alike have praised the chairman's rapid response and urged everyone to ensure they receive the vaccine. Lolo J.C. Alozie, Secretary of the Parent-Teacher Association at Mater Ecclesiae, thanked God for the chairman's immediate action and advised parents not to delay in allowing their children to be vaccinated. "I thank God for the chairman's immediate action. I advise parents not to delay in allowing their children to be vaccinated—it’s better to be safe than sorry," she said.
Students also showed awareness of the crisis. Master Anthony Njoku, a JSS2 student, said he had already received the vaccine. "It’s important to protect ourselves. I encourage all my classmates to do the same," he added.
Rt. Hon. Anthony Ikechukwu, Councilor representing Ahiato Ward and leader of the Aboh Mbaise Legislative Council, commended the local government chairman and extended appreciation to the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as well as the WHO, for their collaborative support in containing the outbreak.
*A Message of Hope*
As the situation returns to normal, health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant. The disease, once thought to affect only children, has also begun to appear in adults, reinforcing the call for mass immunization across all age groups. Hon. Alaribe emphasized that this is not the time for complacency and that the fight against diphtheria will continue until the disease is fully eradicated. "Diphtheria is deadly and highly contagious. We’re not stopping until it is fully eradicated. We’re working hand-in-hand with the state and federal governments, as well as international partners. Traditional rulers and religious leaders have also been mobilized in this fight," he added.
*A Wake-Up Call*
The diphtheria outbreak in Aboh Mbaise serves as a wake-up call to communities across Nigeria to prioritize immunization and health education as vital tools in combating preventable diseases. The successful containment of the outbreak is a testament to the power of collaboration and swift action. As Hon. Alaribe prayed, "May God continue to protect us and grant us the wisdom to eliminate this disease completely from our communities."
*Conclusion*
The people of Aboh Mbaise can breathe a sigh of relief as the diphtheria outbreak is brought under control. The swift action and collaboration between the local government, health officials, and international partners have saved lives and prevented further spread of the disease. As we move forward, it's essential to remain vigilant and prioritize immunization and health education to prevent future outbreaks.
