A recent outbreak of diphtheria in Kano State has tragically claimed the lives of over 40 people, with the majority of the victims being children.
The situation has also led to an influx of patients being admitted to hospitals across the region as medical facilities struggle to handle the growing crisis.
According to report on Wednesday, the hospital was filled to capacity, with all three wards fully occupied by patients suffering from the disease.
Additionally, many more patients were seen waiting outside for consultations and treatment, further illustrating the overwhelming strain on the healthcare system.
A hospital official, who spoke to reporters on the condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media, revealed that the outbreak has resulted in a worrying increase in daily deaths.
“For the past two weeks, there have been fatalities every single day due to this disease,” the official stated somberly. “Doctors are seeing a large number of patients daily. Whether you visit in the morning or evening, you will find dozens of victims waiting for treatment. The hospital has been constantly busy since the outbreak began.”
The official went on to explain that the Infectious Disease Hospital has become the main facility for treating diphtheria cases because many local government area hospitals lack the necessary equipment and resources to manage such serious infectious diseases.
As a result, most patients from across the state are being referred to IDH for treatment. “Our facility is the most equipped to handle infectious diseases, which is why so many patients are being sent here,” the source added.
Among those seeking treatment at the hospital was Samira Danzaki, a concerned mother whose young daughter had fallen seriously ill.
“I brought my daughter here on Sunday after she developed a severe fever and her neck became swollen. We were referred to this hospital, and thankfully, she is responding well to the treatment,” Danzaki shared, expressing relief despite the harrowing experience.
Another individual waiting for medical attention described their worsening condition. “I’ve been dealing with severe throat problems after an episode of catarrh. My situation has deteriorated, and now I’m struggling to breathe and speak properly. That’s why I came here for help,” the person said, emphasizing the gravity of the outbreak.
