The Sokoto State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has directed all principals and school authorities across the state to remain highly vigilant following reports of diphtheria cases in some neighbouring states.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmad Ladan Ala, directed principals to closely monitor the health conditions of students and staff and promptly report any suspected case or unusual symptoms to the nearest health facility and the ministry for immediate attention.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the ministry, Ibrahim Muhammad Iya, he said the directive is necessary as the health and safety of students and staff remain a top priority of the Sokoto State Government.
Diphtheria is a serious infectious disease. Common signs and symptoms include sore throat, hoarseness, mild fever and chills, swollen glands in the neck, weakness and fatigue, runny nose or cough, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and a thick greyish membrane in the throat. Symptoms may appear about two to five days after exposure.
The ministry urged school authorities to seek immediate medical attention for anyone showing suspected symptoms at the nearest appropriate health facility.
Facilities identified for prompt medical attention include Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto; Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), Specialist Hospital, Sokoto; and Amanawa General Hospital, Sokoto.
Principals are also advised to strengthen hygiene practices in schools, promote regular handwashing, maintain clean school environments, and encourage parents and guardians to ensure that children are up to date with recommended vaccinations.
The ministry called on all school authorities, parents, staff and students to remain calm but vigilant and to cooperate fully with health authorities. Any suspected case should be reported promptly to facilitate early assessment and appropriate medical care.