Diphtheria: Zamfara Orders Schools To Resume Monday

The Zamfara State Government has directed all schools across the state to resume academic activities on Monday, September 28, following an improvement in the diphtheria outbreak situation.

The directive was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abdulmalik Gajam.

The ministry said the decision followed an advisory from the Ministry of Health indicating that the diphtheria situation had improved.

The directive covers all public and private schools, including Islamic and Qur’anic education centres across the state.

The government, however, urged schools and communities to remain vigilant and maintain preventive measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

School authorities were directed to monitor pupils, students and staff daily for symptoms associated with diphtheria and promptly report suspected cases to the relevant health authorities.

The ministry also advised schools not to allow anyone displaying suspicious symptoms to participate in academic activities until the person had been medically assessed.

Other preventive measures include regular handwashing, respiratory hygiene, adequate classroom ventilation and reducing overcrowding where possible.

Schools were also directed to cooperate with the planned preventive vaccination campaign.

The ministry urged schools to intensify health education and sensitisation among pupils, students, teachers and parents.

It also directed schools to designate focal persons responsible for health-related reporting and communication with health authorities.

Parents and guardians were advised not to send unwell children to school and to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms of illness occur.

The state government assured residents that the health and safety of children remained a priority and urged schools, parents and communities to work with health officials to maintain a safe learning environment.

For outbreak-related information and reporting, residents can contact the Director of Public Health on 07039605038, the State Epidemiologist on 08166664263 or the State Disease Notification Officer on 07062227171.