The Abia State Government has issued a public health advisory in response to a confirmed diphtheria outbreak in neighbouring Imo State.
The advisory was announced by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, during a media briefing on Monday at the Government House in Umuahia, following the State Executive Council meeting.
Kanu noted that Abia’s proximity to Imo increased its risk of exposure, stressing the importance of proactive measures to prevent a potential outbreak within the state.
He encouraged residents particularly children and individuals uncertain of their immunization status to get vaccinated against diphtheria. Parents were advised to monitor their children closely for symptoms and seek prompt medical attention when necessary.
Kanu highlighted the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing, covering the mouth while coughing, and avoiding close contact with individuals showing signs of illness.
He further stated that the Ministry of Health has urged residents to report any suspected cases immediately to local health authorities.
To aid in awareness and prevention efforts, the commissioner called on community leaders, religious figures, educators, and traditional rulers to disseminate accurate information across their constituencies.
Additionally, Kanu advised individuals travelling to affected areas to ensure their vaccinations are current.
In a significant public health milestone, Kanu announced that Abia has been officially declared free of river blindness, following three decades of sustained treatment efforts. The recognition, granted by the Federal Ministry of Health, was described as a major achievement for the state.
Progress in Sports and Traffic Management
On a separate note, Kanu reported that Abia athletes secured a total of 70 medals at the recently concluded National Sports Festival, ranking 10th overall. The haul included 12 gold, 18 silver, and 40 bronze medals—representing the state’s strongest performance in recent years. He attributed the success to increased investment in sports development by the state government.
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Turning to transportation, the commissioner disclosed that the Ministry of Transport has initiated strict enforcement against one-way driving in key urban areas. Offenders will face heavy fines and possible vehicle impoundment as part of efforts to restore traffic order and enhance road safety.
Kanu reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to curbing traffic violations and urged all road users to comply with traffic laws and drive responsibly.
