Diphtheria: Zamfara, MSF begin house-to-house search in Gusau

The Zamfara State Ministry of Health and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) have initiated a house-to-house search for suspected diphtheria cases in Gusau Local Government Area. The primary objective is to enhance early detection, curb further transmission and ensure prompt referral of suspected cases for treatment. Health teams are actively searching communities, educating residents about diphtheria signs and symptoms, and urging immediate medical attention.

Identified cases are being referred to designated treatment centres such as the Infectious Diseases Centre (IDC) in Damba and Primary Health Care (PHC) Kwata. Patients and caregivers at these centres are receiving free healthcare, including meals, along with additional assessments and treatment. The initiative also aims to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, enhance the capability of health workers, and support efforts to contain the disease within communities.

Special attention is being paid to the water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities at the treatment centres to ensure safe infection prevention and control practices. Dr Yusuf Abubakar Haske, Director of Public Health, praised the initiative and reiterated the state government's commitment to public health and disease outbreak containment.

Both the state ministry and MSF urged residents of Gusau to cooperate with response teams, promptly report suspected diphtheria cases to health authorities for early assessment, and receive appropriate treatment.