The National Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, says tetanus and diphtheria are threatening pregnant women in the country.
The Executive Director of the agency, Dr Muyi Aina, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja in an interview with newsmen, saying immunization was urgently recommended for the safety of pregnant women and their babies.
OsunDailyNG reports that tetanus is an infection caused by clostridium tetani bacterium, which typically enters the body through wounds or cuts and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system.
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose that releases a toxin that can lead to formation of a thick grey or white coating in the throat, making breathing difficult.
According to Aina, recent cases had shown a direct correlation between these infections and loss of unborn babies, prompting a call for immediate action.
He noted that tetanus and diphtheria, once thought as rare, were resurfacing.
“The silent nature of these infections can catch many off guard, especially pregnant women, making it imperative to raise awareness about the potential dangers they pose during pregnancy,” he said.
