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The Edo State Ministry of Health has reported two deaths due to diphtheria between January and August, with six confirmed cases during that period. Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, the Director of Public Health, stressed the need for vaccination, as diphtheria is preventable. He encouraged parents and caregivers to take advantage of the free vaccines available.
Ojeifo pointed out that delayed hospital visits contributed to the fatalities. The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has supplied the state with diphtheria antitoxins, which are critical for early treatment. Currently, there are no active suspected cases in the state.