Following the outbreak of diphtheria in Zamfara State, North-West Nigeria, which has claimed 44 lives with about 367 cases recorded, the State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has extended the resumption date for all public and private schools by two weeks.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abdulmalik Gajam, the ministry said the decision followed the latest health advisory from the Ministry of Health on the prevailing diphtheria situation in the state.
The extension, according to the ministry, is aimed at protecting the health and well-being of pupils, students, teachers and the wider school community.
The ministry said the additional two weeks will allow health authorities to strengthen disease surveillance, contact tracing, vaccination verification, public sensitisation and other preventive measures before schools reopen.
All school proprietors, heads of schools and management boards have therefore been directed to comply with the extension.
Parents and guardians are also urged to cooperate with health authorities by ensuring that children receive the necessary vaccinations, screening and other recommended preventive measures.
The ministry said it will continue to work closely with the State Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, while providing further guidance as the situation develops.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
