ByKemi Olatunde

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Ondo state Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka, has provided an update on the status of Anthrax and Diptheria in the state, stating that there’s no case recorded so far for both diseases.

To this effect, the State Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Veterinary Department of the Ministry of Agriculture to conduct active surveillance on the diseases.

The commissioner made this known during the weekly Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) meeting in Akure.

According to him, even though suspected cases had earlier been reported, all tests carried out came out negative.

He urged health workers in the state to remain vigilant and maintain high suspicious levels when treating patients.

Ajaka said that to prevent any possible outbreak in the state, citizens especially livestock farmers, must report promptly any illnesses or deaths occurring on their farms, while also cautioning them against coming in contact with sick or dead animals.

Dr Ajaka emphasized that the ministry is actively conducting surveillance through Disease Surveillance Officers (DSMO) stationed across all 18 Local Government Areas in the State.

He assured that active surveillance would continue until measures are put in place to curtail bacterial infections caused by Anthrax and Diptheria.

He urged citizens to cooperate with health officials and report any suspicious cases immediately while adhering strictly to safety guidelines issued by relevant authorities to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all residents of Ondo state.