Abia State Issues Health Advisory Over Diphtheria Outbreak in Neighbouring Imo
The Abia State Ministry of Health has issued a public health alert following an outbreak of diphtheria in neighbouring Imo State. The government is urging all residents to take immediate preventive measures.
Commissioner Urges Vaccination and Vigilance
During a press briefing in Umuahia on Monday, following the weekly Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti, Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, emphasized the need for community awareness and action.
“All parents must ensure their children are vaccinated, and adults unsure of their immunization status should also get vaccinated,” Kanu said.
He urged residents to report suspected cases of diphtheria to the nearest health authorities and called on community stakeholders and media organizations to amplify the alert across the state.
Abia State Declared Free of River Blindness After 30 Years
In a major health milestone, the Federal Ministry of Health has declared Abia State free of river blindness (onchocerciasis). This comes after three decades of sustained mass drug administration and vector control efforts.
“We are proud to announce that Abia has officially defeated river blindness after 30 years of continuous intervention,” Kanu stated.
The commissioner commended health workers and partner organizations for their contributions to achieving this feat.
Abia Launches Strict Crackdown on “One Way” Traffic Offenders
In a separate development, the Abia State Ministry of Transport has launched a traffic enforcement campaign targeting drivers who flout one-way traffic regulations a major cause of road accidents in the state.
New Enforcement Measures and Heavy Penalties
Kanu announced that an enforcement team has been constituted to arrest offenders and impound their vehicles. Defaulters will be required to pay substantial fines, and vehicles left unclaimed will be auctioned.
“The enforcement of these rules will be very stringent. Offenders will be prosecuted and fined heavily,” Kanu warned. “If fines are not paid within a stipulated period, the vehicles will be auctioned.”
This new initiative is aimed at promoting road safety and reducing the number of traffic-related incidents in Abia.
Summary
Health Alert: Diphtheria outbreak in Imo prompts urgent advisory in Abia.
Preventive Action: Residents urged to vaccinate children and report suspected cases.
Health Milestone: Abia declared free of river blindness after 30 years.
Traffic Reform: New enforcement against one-way drivers to reduce accidents.
