The Federal Capital Territory Administration has stepped up its response to diphtheria in Karshi, targeting children who have not been vaccinated or have missed routine immunisation doses.

The move follows the confirmation of diphtheria cases in the community, with health teams now working to identify suspected cases and close gaps in vaccination coverage.

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Adedolapo Fasawe, says surveillance and vaccination teams have been deployed to Karshi and other communities within the FCT.

The District Head of Karshi, Ahmed Doka, welcomed the intervention, saying the involvement of health authorities is important in protecting children and preventing the spread of the disease.

The FCT Administration is urging parents and caregivers to ensure their children are fully vaccinated and to visit the nearest primary healthcare centre if they are unsure of their vaccination status. Residents are also advised to seek medical attention promptly if they notice symptoms associated with diphtheria, including fever, sore throat, difficulty swallowing or swelling of the neck.