Diphtheria outbreak kills 10 children in Niger

At least ten children have died following a diphtheria outbreak in Agaie and Bida Local Government Areas of Niger State.

The victims were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Bida, but later passed away. More deaths have also been reported in surrounding communities since the outbreak began.

A worried resident of Bida, who spoke on condition of anonymity, appealed to the state government for urgent help.
“This is a matter of life and death. We need immediate supply of drugs to Bida and Agaie hospitals to stop the spread,” the resident said.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Health Care, Dr. Mohammed Gana, confirmed the outbreak. He said the government, with support from health partners, is providing drugs and taking steps to contain it.

“Yes, there is an outbreak of diphtheria in these local governments. We are doing everything possible to bring it under control,” Gana assured, adding that the situation has now been stabilised.