The Federal Government is finalizing the development of the National Diphtheria Laboratory to conduct preliminary and confirmatory testing of the disease in the country.
This is even as the government said there have been 13,204 reported suspected cases, out of which 8,406 were confirmed cases from 114 Local Government Areas in 18 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacteria that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes, the skin of an individual.
In order to prevent the spread of this disease,yes fm’s Oluwasemiloore Ige spoke to a medical practitioner, Dr Desmond Oludele who elaborated on the workings of the disease.
“He said,Diphtheria is a serious Bacteria infection that can affect the mucus membrane of the nose and throat. Diphtheria is caused by bacteria called “corynebacterium diphtheriae” and this can be contacted through the ear borne through contaminated items.
Some of the symptoms are: sore throat, nasal discharge, fever, swollen neck gland and breathing difficulty.
Ways to prevent diphtheria is by being vaccinated and if you want to know about vaccination please go to the nearest hospital they will put you through.
And for people that are affected with diphtheria how it is treated? It can be treated with antibiotics and with supporting managements”.
Of the 8,406 confirmed cases in Nigeria, 6,202 were aged 1-14 years.##
WRT/Semiloore