A deadly diphtheria outbreak has struck Mbutu Community in Aboh Mbaise LGA, Imo State, with reports indicating multiple fatalities, primarily among children.
In a press statement, the Local Government Chairman, Iheukwumere Alaribe, confirmed the tragic loss of lives, revealing that several children succumbed to the disease within a single week.
To curb further spread, the chairman ordered the immediate shutdown of all nursery, primary, and secondary schools in Mbutu. Health teams from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Imo State Ministry of Health’s Disease Prevention and Control Department, and the Aboh Mbaise Health Authority have mobilized to contain the outbreak. An isolation center has been established at Mbutu Health Centre, with medical personnel assigned to monitor and quarantine affected or exposed children.
Alaribe urged parents to ensure their children receive vaccinations promptly, emphasizing immunization as the most effective protection against diphtheria and similar infections.
While appealing for calm, the state government assured residents of ongoing updates and requested community cooperation to manage the crisis. Efforts are underway to fully contain the outbreak and prevent additional casualties.
