Imo Health Commissioner Refutes Social Media Claims of Diphtheria-Linked Student Death in Owerri

The Imo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, has publicly dismissed recent viral claims on social media platforms alleging that diphtheria disease was responsible for the death of a student at Technical Training College (TTC), situated in Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State, Nigeria.

In an official press release, Dr. Egu clarified that the circulating video reports suggesting a fatal diphtheria infection in the school were entirely baseless and misleading. She emphasized that the allegations lacked any factual foundation and were inconsistent with the findings of the Imo State Ministry of Health.

Upon thorough investigation prompted by the circulating rumours, the Ministry’s medical team discovered that the case in question was not associated with diphtheria. Instead, it was identified as a suspected malignancy, which remains under clinical examination for a definitive diagnosis. According to Dr. Egu, the nature of this health case has no links to any communicable disease outbreak in the region, thereby nullifying fears of a diphtheria spread in the area.

The Commissioner further explained that the Department of Public Health, under her supervision, immediately initiated a comprehensive health response. This swift action involved deploying experts to the site to conduct professional assessments in line with globally recognized public health best practices.

She confirmed that preliminary findings from on-ground surveillance and health checks within the school and the surrounding LGA indicated no signs or markers of any diphtheria outbreak. This outcome reassured both parents and guardians, as well as the general public in Imo State, that there is currently no health emergency linked to diphtheria in the affected school or the wider Owerri West LGA.

In her statement, Dr. Egu strongly cautioned against the spread of false and unverified information, particularly within sensitive environments like schools. She warned that misinformation can incite unnecessary panic and hinder the effective functioning of health professionals working diligently to safeguard public health.

“The Ministry urges the public to refrain from disseminating unverified narratives. Misinformation not only triggers avoidable fear but also disrupts the essential work of our medical and health experts,” she advised.

This statement serves as a public reminder of the critical role of responsible communication, especially concerning public health issues. The Imo State Government remains committed to proactive health surveillance and crisis response to ensure the safety of all citizens.