At least ten children have died in Niger State following a fresh outbreak of diphtheria in Agaie and Bida Local Government Areas. The children were taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Bida, but sadly, they could not survive complications from the disease.
According to Mediaplusng.com, community sources confirmed that several other unreported deaths have also occurred in rural villages within the two LGAs since the outbreak began, though the exact numbers remain unclear. The situation has created fear among residents, who now want urgent intervention from both the state and federal governments.
One resident in Bida, who pleaded anonymity, said families are worried and need immediate support. “This is a life-and-death matter. We are begging the government to send vaccines and drugs quickly to Bida and Agaie hospitals so the disease does not spread further,” the resident said.
Speaking with journalists, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Health Care, Dr. Mohammed Gana, confirmed the outbreak. He told Mediaplusng.com that the government, in partnership with health agencies, has started emergency response measures, including medication supply, surveillance, and efforts to contain the infection.
Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial disease that affects the throat and airways. It produces toxins that can damage the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. Experts warn it can be deadly if untreated, especially in children, but stress that routine vaccination remains the best protection.
The Niger State Ministry of Health has urged parents to ensure their children are fully immunized with diphtheria vaccines and advised residents to report suspected cases to the nearest health facility without delay.
