Dr Hassan Shuaibu, public health expert, has urged the Bauchi State Government to intensify the awareness and vaccination campaign to end the spread of diphtheria in the state.

There was a report of diphtheria in Bauchi State that has killed two persons in Jama’are Local Government Area.

Shuaibu made the call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi, saying the government should rise to end diphtheria spread.

He said the government need to intensifying awareness and vaccination campaigns to end the spread of Diphtheria infection in the state and its neighbours.

Dr Shuaibu, also the head of standard quality assurance and enforcement of the National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA), said diphtheria was a serious bacterial infection affecting the mucous membranes of the throat and nose.

“It’s a bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheria that produces toxins. It can lead to difficulty breathing, heart rhythm problems, and even death.

“Although it spreads easily from one person to another, diphtheria can be prevented through the use of vaccines.

He added that if left untreated, it could cause severe damage to kidneys, nervous system, and heart.

The expert urged the government to give emphasis on immunisation as the socio-economic differences made it impossible for everyone to receive the right nutrition and breastfeeding.

According to him, signs of diphtheria often appear within two to five days of the infection occurring.

“Some people don’t experience any symptoms, while others have mild symptoms that are similar to those of the common cold.

“The most visible and common symptom of diphtheria is a thick, gray coating on the throat and tonsils,” Shuaibu said.

The expert also stressed the need for strengthening of primary health care services, immunisation services, and vaccination efforts in the affected places.

Dr Shuaibu, however, cautioned that people at risk of contracting diphtheria should update their vaccinations, avoid unsanitary place and crowded conditions.