By Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Gombe State, has raised concerns over what it describes as the state government’s inadequate response to the reported outbreak of diphtheria in parts of the state.
In a statement signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Abdulkadir Ahmad Dukku, the party said reports available to indicate that diphtheria cases have been recorded in some states across the North-Central and North-Eastern regions, including Gombe.
The PDP said it was particularly concerned about reports that some suspected cases had been admitted at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, with additional cases allegedly recorded at the Federal Medical Centre, Kumo, as well as General Hospitals in Bajoga and Billiri.
The party urged the Gombe State Government to publicly clarify the current status of diphtheria in the state and outline measures being taken to prevent further spread of the disease.
It also called for intensified public enlightenment, disease surveillance, testing, treatment and vaccination, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups.
The PDP further urged the state government to strengthen collaboration with relevant health authorities and healthcare institutions to ensure early detection and prompt management of suspected and confirmed cases.
The party said the health and wellbeing of residents should remain a priority, urging the government to demonstrate greater urgency and transparency in addressing the reported public health concern.
The PDP also cited measures reportedly taken by neighbouring states, including school closures and intensified vaccination and sensitisation campaigns, and called on the Gombe State Government to take appropriate preventive measures based on the prevailing situation.
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