The Abia government has issued a public health advisory following a reported outbreak of diphtheria in the neighbouring Imo.

The information commissioner, Okey Kanu, announced the advisory on Monday while briefing journalists at the Government House, Umuahia, on the resolutions of the State Executive Council meeting.

Mr Kanu said the proximity of Imo made Abia vulnerable and restated the importance of preventive action to avert an outbreak in Abia.

He urged the people to get vaccinated against the scourge, especially children and individuals who were not sure of their diphtheria status.

Mr Kanu also urged parents to closely observe their children and report any symptoms immediately to healthcare providers.

He reiterated the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, including regular hand washing.

The commissioner advised residents to cover their mouths when coughing and to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.

He further said Abia’s health ministry had urged residents to report any suspected cases to local health officials promptly.

The commissioner called on community and religious leaders, teachers, and traditional rulers to help spread the information on the need to prevent an outbreak in Abia.

He advised people who would be travelling to affected areas to ensure that their vaccinations were up to date.

In a positive development, Mr Kanu said Abia had been declared free of river blindness after 30 years of treatment efforts. He described the declaration by the Federal Ministry of Health as a milestone.

In sports, Mr Kanu said Abia athletes won 70 medals at the just-concluded National Sports Festival, placing 10th overall.

According to him, the medal tally includes 12 gold, 18 silver, and 40 bronze, marking the state’s best outing in years. He said the progress reflected growing investment in sports development by the Abia government.

Mr Kanu also mentioned that the transport ministry had launched a crackdown on one-way driving in major cities in Abia. He said the enforcement team for the policy had been mandated to fine offenders heavily and impound vehicles when necessary to restore order.

The commissioner expressed the Abia government’s determination to address the menace and ensure road safety for all. He also urged road users to obey traffic regulations and drive responsibly.

(NAN)