Kano role model in fight against Diphtheria outbreak – WHO

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The World Health Organization,WHO, has commended Kano State Government over its rapid response to arrest the diphtheria outbreak in the state,describing it as a role model in the fight against the disease.

The WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Kazadi Mulumbo Walter made the commendation when his delegation paid a working visit to the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the Government House,Kano.

Walter said the state had displayed an exemplary role in its response against the disease,and called on other states to follow suit.

According to him, “Kano is an epicenter for diphtheria, but what we have seen so far is exemplary in rapid response.

All agencies, sectors, partners are working around and implementing a diphtheria response effort. And that is an example of how to work together.

“We hope other states will follow suit and harness these successes.

“Obviously, Kano has a great potential of revitalizing the Primary Health Care(PHC) which has been put fore by WHO to accelerate healthcare.

“Diphtheria is just a wake-up call that we have to revisit the foundation of the PHC, multi-sector policy and action, community empowerment and engagement.

“What we have seen here is an example of political will or commitment,” Walter said.