The Management of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State, has appealed to the public, patients, and hospital visitors to remain calm following the recent management of a clinically suspected diphtheria case at its facility.
The clarification, it noted, became necessary following anxiety generated by the admission and subsequent death of a pediatric patient at the hospital’s Children’s Emergency Room (CHER).
According to a public statement issued by the hospital management, the young patient received full medical intervention upon admission, but regrettably passed away two days later, despite intensive efforts by the attending medical team.
However, a subsequent clinical post-mortem review indicated that the severe symptoms may have been caused by severe pharyngotonsillitis, with massive exudate, rather than diphtheria as initially suspected.
Despite the revised clinical assessment, hospital authorities confirmed that comprehensive contact tracing is currently underway as a precautionary measure to monitor anyone who had close contact with the deceased.
To ensure absolute safety and prevent potential transmission, the hospital management has also completed a standard decontamination exercise of the Children’s Emergency Room in strict compliance with infection prevention and control protocols.
Reassuring the public of the health institution’s capacity, the management emphasized that UNTH has previously managed and resolved sporadic cases of diphtheria successfully.
The statement noted that the tertiary health facility possesses the requisite specialist expertise, isolation infrastructure, and medical equipment needed to handle infectious disease cases effectively.
Addressing broader public health concerns regarding diphtheria across the country, the management advised members of the public to remain vigilant and watch for key symptoms, including persistent fever, severe sore throat, and difficulty in swallowing.
The hospital urged individuals or parents who notice these symptoms in themselves or their wards to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest certified healthcare facility rather than resorting to self-medication.
Furthermore, all healthcare workers, patients, and visitors within the hospital premises were advised to consistently observe standard safety measures, including hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, as they carry out their daily routines.
Reaffirming its commitment, the UNTH leadership assured the public that it will continue to prioritize community safety, safeguard public health, and provide transparent updates based on verified medical data.
