A recent outbreak of diphtheria in Kano State has tragically claimed the lives of over 40 people, predominantly children, with many others currently hospitalized.
During a visit to the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) on Wednesday at around 2:00 PM, it was observed that all three wards were filled to capacity, with additional patients waiting in line for medical attention.
A hospital official, who requested anonymity due to media restrictions, revealed that the daily death toll has been alarmingly high since the outbreak began.
“For the past two weeks, there have been daily fatalities from this disease,” the official disclosed.
“Every day, doctors are inundated with patients.
If you visit in the morning or evening, you will find dozens of victims waiting for treatment.
The hospital has been continuously busy since the outbreak began.”
The official further explained that the hospital is overwhelmed because many local government hospitals lack the necessary facilities to manage such cases.
“Most patients are referred here because our facility is the most equipped to handle infectious diseases,” the source added.
Samira Danzaki, a mother whose daughter is receiving treatment at the hospital, shared her experience with Daily Trust.
“I brought my daughter here on Sunday after she developed a severe fever and her neck swelled.
We were referred to this hospital, and thankfully, she is responding to treatment,” Danzaki said.
Another patient in line reported severe throat issues after initially suffering from catarrh.
“I came here because my condition worsened, and I am now having difficulty with my throat,” the patient explained.
When contacted, Samira Sulaiman, the Public Relations Officer of the State Hospital Management Board, neither confirmed nor denied the outbreak, stating that management was holding an emergency meeting on the issue and promised to provide an official statement the following day.
