A recent outbreak of diphtheria in Kano State has led to the deaths of more than 40 people, most of them children, and left many others in critical condition.
The surge in cases has overwhelmed local healthcare facilities, particularly the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) in Kano, which is operating beyond its capacity.
A visit to the IDH on Wednesday afternoon revealed that all three wards were filled with patients, and many more were waiting in line for medical attention. The hospital is struggling to cope with the rising number of cases.
An official from the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the alarming situation, noting that the fatalities have been occurring daily for the past two weeks.
“Every day, doctors are treating a large influx of patients. The hospital is constantly full, morning and evening, with dozens of people waiting for care since the outbreak began,” the official stated.
The official also highlighted that the IDH is bearing the brunt of the outbreak because many local government hospitals in the area lack the necessary resources to manage the disease.
Consequently, a significant number of patients are being referred to the IDH, which is considered the best-equipped facility in the region for handling infectious diseases.
“Our hospital is receiving patients from various local government areas because their facilities are not equipped to handle these cases,” the source added.
Among the affected families is that of Samira Danzaki, whose daughter is currently being treated at the hospital. “I brought my daughter here on Sunday after she developed a high fever and swelling in her neck. We were referred to this hospital, and fortunately, she is responding to treatment,” Danzaki explained.
Another patient, who chose to remain anonymous, shared their experience: “I came here after my condition worsened. I initially had catarrh, and now I’m struggling with throat problems.”
Samira Sulaiman, the Public Relations Officer of the State Hospital Management Board, was unable to confirm specific details about the outbreak but acknowledged that hospital officials were in an emergency meeting to address the crisis. She promised to issue a statement with more information soon.
As the outbreak continues to spread, healthcare authorities in Kano face increasing pressure to contain the disease and prevent further loss of life.
