JUST IN: UNTH Enugu confirms-diphtheria-case-as-patient-died-two-days-after-admission

Health

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu State, has confirmed a clinically diagnosed case of diphtheria at the hospital, disclosing that the patient died two days after admission despite efforts by medical personnel to save the patient.

The hospital management disclosed this in an internal memo, signed by Dr Charles Nonyelu, Chief Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) of UNTH, Enugu, to Heads of Departments and Heads of Units on Wednesday, stating that the patient was managed at the hospital’s Children’s Emergency Room (CHER) before the death.

“Unfortunately, the patient was lost two days after admission, despite all efforts to treat this patient,” he said, without disclosing the identity, age or other details of the deceased patient in the internal communication.

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UNTH said contact tracing had commenced following the case, while the CHER had also undergone proper decontamination with the management urging members of the hospital community not to panic, noting that sporadic cases of diphtheria had previously been managed successfully at the hospital.

“It is imperative to note that sporadic cases of diphtheria has been managed successfully in this hospital in the past as such there is no need for unnecessary panic,” the memo stated.

Meanwhile, the hospital management urged staff to remain vigilant and familiarise themselves with symptoms associated with the disease. It listed fever, sore throat and difficulty in swallowing among the symptoms members of the hospital community should watch out for, advising those who develop such symptoms to seek prompt medical attention.

“In the light of the Diphteria outbreak in the country, members of the hospital community should be aware of the symptoms such as fever, sore throat & difficulty in swallowing and seek prompt medical care if they develop such symptoms,” the memo stated.

The management further directed staff to continue observing standard precautions while carrying out their clinical duties.

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It produces a toxin that can damage the throat, heart and nerves. Symptoms can include sore throat, fever, swollen glands and a thick grey coating in the throat that may obstruct breathing.

Severe cases can lead to heart inflammation, nerve problems and death, particularly when treatment is delayed.

How diphtheria spreads

Diphtheria can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through close contact, including living with an infected person or sharing personal items.

Transmission may also occur through contaminated objects such as towels, utensils and tissues, as well as direct contact with infected skin sores.

How to protect against diphtheria

• Vaccination: Diphtheria vaccination is an effective way to prevent the disease.
• Booster doses: Recommended booster vaccinations help maintain immunity.
• Good hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding the sharing of personal items can reduce the risk of transmission.
• Early medical care: Prompt diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.
• Community protection: High vaccination coverage helps limit the spread of diphtheria and prevent outbreaks.