Skikda, Algeria – Health officials are responding to a confirmed outbreak of diphtheria in Skikda province, with five cases reported, including two fatalities. The Ministry of Health confirmed the outbreak today, stating that among the deceased were a 25-year-old foreign national and a 12-year-old Algerian girl who had not been vaccinated against the disease.
In response to the outbreak, a crisis cell has been established within the Skikda Directorate of Health and Population. This team is tasked with closely monitoring the epidemiological situation and implementing all necessary preventative and hospital-based measures in coordination with local authorities.
The Ministry of Health indicated that specialized health services have launched thorough epidemiological investigations into the recorded cases. This includes tracing individuals who had contact with infected persons. Those contacts are now undergoing preventative treatment and are being vaccinated against diphtheria to prevent further spread of the infection and avert new cases.
Health services revealed that 514 individuals have been vaccinated within the past 48 hours as part of a proactive vaccination campaign supervised by local health teams under the direction of the provincial crisis cell.
The Ministry of Health asserts that the situation is currently stable and that field monitoring continues rigorously on a daily basis. This is being achieved by strengthening epidemiological surveillance activities across all health facilities in the province, in addition to managing recorded cases in accordance with established treatment protocols.
The Ministry urges all citizens to adhere to the national vaccination schedule, emphasizing that vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing diphtheria and various other infectious diseases. Vaccines are readily available at all health institutions.
The Ministry of Health assures the public that it is closely monitoring developments in Skikda province and remains committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and protecting public health. Furthermore, it is working to launch an awareness campaign highlighting the importance of vaccination and prevention of infectious diseases.
