The ongoing diphtheria outbreak in Katsina State has put the Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina under severe pressure, with a surge in suspected and confirmed cases overwhelming its Children’s Ward.
The hospital management disclosed in a statement on Saturday that the facility was receiving a large number of patients referred from other health centres, resulting in severe overcrowding and stretching available bed spaces beyond capacity.
The management said the outbreak had placed enormous pressure on the hospital, particularly the Children’s Ward, where critically ill children require urgent medical attention.
Despite the pressure, the hospital said it was making arrangements to accommodate and manage the growing number of patients while continuing to provide timely and quality care.
It also commended healthcare workers for their resilience and dedication, noting that they had continued to care for critically ill children despite the difficult conditions.
The hospital management called for stronger coordination among health facilities, government agencies and other stakeholders involved in the outbreak response.
According to the management, a coordinated approach is essential to managing the increasing patient load and protecting the lives of affected children.
“FTH Katsina remains committed to supporting the response to the outbreak,” the management said.
The hospital did not disclose the number of diphtheria patients currently admitted or the total number of cases recorded in Katsina State.
Meanwhile, health authorities are expected to provide further updates on the outbreak and measures being taken to contain its spread.
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