From Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
As schools reopen in Katsina State on Monday, the state government has directed parents and guardians not to send children with symptoms of illness to school.
The directive comes amid concerns over the reported spread of diphtheria and conjunctivitis, popularly known as Apollo, in the state.
Our correspondent reports that Katsina State has so far recorded more than 2,000 cases of diphtheria across 30 of the 34 Local Government Areas, while Apollo remains a common illness among children and adults.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the State Ministry of Education, Sani Danjuma Suleiman, the government advised parents to ensure that children showing symptoms of illness receive appropriate medical attention and fully recover before returning to school.
The statement explained that the precautionary measure was necessary to prevent the spread of diphtheria and other contagious illnesses among students, teachers and other members of the school community.
The statement read:
“Parents and guardians are urged to ensure that only students who are physically fit and free from any contagious illness resume school.”
“The ministry appreciated the cooperation and understanding of parents, guardians, school authorities and the general public in safeguarding the health and well-being of children.
