Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states report the highest incidence with 75 per cent of total cases.
The children’s agency pledges support to the Federal Government of Nigeria, deploys 9.3 million doses of vaccines to the affected states.
Rates Nigeria as high risk with 4,717 confirmed cases; calls for immediate vaccination and vigilant monitoring across the country.
The Federal Government moves to confront growing diphtheria crisis in 14 states, mobilizing an emergency multi-agency taskforce to curb community transmission.
The UN agency urged mothers to breastfeed their babies, as this will improve their health, while ensuring that their babies grow healthy and strong. It also called on governments and employers to create conducive spaces where mothers can easily breastfeed their babies.
NPHCDA has revealed that diphtheria has killed 83 people and infected 836 as of July 27 this year. Alongside the NCDC, it has ramped up support and response activities in affected states.
Citing that the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, a critical stage, determine their cognitive and physical growth as well as their survival.
Routine Immunization, PHC services in Yobe, Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano, and Sokoto improved in the last eight years. Traditional leaders commended for contributions. Interventions brought about accountability and utilization of state budgets.