In a recent move aimed at addressing the escalating diphtheria outbreak, the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to initiate a nationwide vaccination campaign in schools.
This call to action follows a motion of urgent public importance presented by the House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, during a plenary session. The motion highlighted the alarming rise in diphtheria cases, particularly after a 12-year-old student at King’s College in Lagos succumbed to the disease, with several others hospitalized.
Rotimi expressed deep concern over the significant gaps in infection prevention and control measures within federal unity colleges, emphasizing the need for the Federal Ministry of Education to ensure student safety.
He praised the Lagos State Government for its swift response, which included isolating affected students and launching a mass vaccination drive.
The House commended the efforts of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency in combating the disease. Following the adoption of the motion, the House directed relevant health agencies to intensify vaccination and awareness campaigns in schools.
Additionally, it mandated the Federal Ministry of Education to review health infrastructure in unity colleges and establish a clear response framework for infectious disease outbreaks.
The lawmakers also tasked their committees with engaging relevant agencies to enhance infection prevention and emergency response measures in federal schools.
Furthermore, they urged the Federal Government to provide compensation to the family of the deceased student, acknowledging the tragic loss and the duty of care owed to students in federal institutions.
