WHO, UNICEF, IRC collaborate to revamp and deliver isolation facility to Yobe state

Ibrahim Umar
Kanempress
3rd, August,2023

The renovation of the Isolation center was deemed necessary due to the increasing number of Diphtheria cases in Yobe state. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe respiratory issues and even death if not properly managed.

The newly renovated Isolation center is equipped with essential medical equipment and supplies including beds oxygen cylinders and personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. This will ensure that patients can receive the necessary treatment in a safe and isolated environment.

WHO Northeast Emergency Manager, Dr Beatrice Muraguri, highlighted the importance of collaborating with partners like UNICEF and IRC to address the healthcare needs of the community. By working together they can provide the support and resources needed to effectively manage disease outbreaks and improve the overall health of the population.

Dr Ningi Barau Nuhu the state coordinator of the WHO expressed gratitude to the partners for their support in renovating the Isolation center. He emphasized the importance of having a well-equipped facility to handle disease outbreaks and prevent the spread of infections within the community.

The Yobe state government has also been actively involved in efforts to combat Diphtheria and other diseases. They have implemented various preventive measures such as vaccination campaigns and public health education to raise awareness about the importance of immunization and proper hygiene practices.

The handover of the Isolation center marks a significant milestone in the fight against Diphtheria in Yobe state. It demonstrates the commitment of the WHO UNICEF and IRC to ensuring the health and well-being of the community. By providing a dedicated facility for the isolation and treatment of patients they can effectively manage disease outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.

Receiving the renovated facility on behalf of the state government, the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Management Board, Dr Babagana Kundi Machina, thanked WHO and other partners for the foresight.

“You know we have the outbreak of Diphtheria in the state and we needed all sorts of support we could get to improve our response effort and case management. One of the challenges we faced was paucity of space to accommodate patients, WHO came in, looked at the existing structure on ground for possible support.

“They came in, renovated and equipped the edifice, as you can see the good job they did, we are really grateful to them, it will accommodate more patients because our existing isolation centre is over stretched,” he said.

The Yobe state government recently confirmed that 26 patients had died following the outbreak of the dithetheria disease in the state with Potiskum recording the highest cases.