Abuja: The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched an initiative in Karshi community to address the spread of diphtheria, seeking to curb the disease’s progression and impact.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the campaign, titled ‘Advocacy Campaign/Community Engagement on the Prevention and Control of Diphtheria in Karshi Community of the FCT,’ aims to mobilize local efforts in fighting the disease. Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, FCTA, reported recent alerts of diphtheria in several FCT communities. Fifteen suspected cases were investigated, with five confirmed through laboratory tests, resulting in two fatalities. This prompted the activation of a multidisciplinary Incident Management Team.
Dr. Fasawe highlighted that the teams are performing active case searches, identifying and monitoring close contacts, and administering preventive antibiotics where necessary. They are also collecting samples for laboratory testing
and sensitizing healthcare workers on early detection and control measures. In Karshi, surveillance and vaccination teams have been deployed, especially in priority areas like Angwan Kokosa.
The teams collaborate with local leaders and health facilities to conduct case searches, address vaccination gaps, and identify children missing routine vaccinations. The focus is on zero-dose and under-immunized children. Parents and caregivers are urged to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date, with guidance available at primary healthcare centers.
Efforts to enhance risk communication and community engagement will be intensified, targeting households, schools, and public spaces. Dr. Jubril Al-Kasim, FCT State Coordinator from the World Health Organization, emphasized the importance of vaccination to prevent the disease. The campaign aims to engage traditional and religious leaders to support transmission interruption efforts in Karshi.
Hajia Hannatu Bello from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and
Prevention reiterated the agency’s commitment to preventing outbreaks through technical support and community engagement. Alhaji Ahmed Doka, District Head of Karshi, expressed the community’s readiness to support the advocacy efforts.