A fresh wave of diphtheria outbreak has hit Imo State, claiming the lives of three school pupils—two boys and a girl—in Amihie Ward, Obibi Ochasi, Okwuabala, and Ihiteowere in Orlu Local Government Area.

Following the outbreak, the state government has ordered the immediate closure of all primary and secondary schools in the affected communities.

Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. B. T. O. Ikegwuoha, announced the measure in a statement issued at the weekend.

He confirmed preliminary findings of the outbreak and directed all school heads and parents to comply.

Imo State previously recorded an outbreak about three weeks ago in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, where six pupils died. Schools in that council were closed and only reopened a week ago after containment of the disease.

Prof. Ikegwuoha said the closure decision was made after discussions with Governor Hope Uzodimma.

His statement read in part: “There are reported cases of deaths of a few school-aged children due to diphtheria in some parts of Orlu LGA. The outbreak is presently concentrated around Amihie Ward, Obibi Ochasi, Okwuabala, and Ogberuru towns.

“There are three confirmed fatalities so far. In respect of the privacy of the families, we are unable to list the names of the deceased.”

He noted that three additional cases have been reported around Okwuabala and Ihiteowere.

The directive covers schools in Obibi Ochasi, Ogberuru, Okwuabala, Ihioma Clan, Ihittenansa, Asaa Uberelem, Umuhu Okabia, and surrounding areas.

Prof. Ikegwuoha said, “This decision, approved by His Excellency Governor Uzodimma, is a precautionary measure for the safety of our pupils, students, and citizens.”

He added that the closure was agreed upon in consultation with the Chairman of Orlu LGA, Pastor Chris Mbarie, and will remain in effect until further notice.