DIPHTHERIA AND METRO BUSES
The Plateau State Government deserves commendation for introducing metro buses to ease transportation for workers, students, traders, business people and other residents across the metropolitan LGAs. However, with diphtheria reported in Jos North and deaths reportedly linked to the disease, we must begin to look at the potential public-health implications of crowded public transportation. These buses move large numbers of people daily across Jos South, Jos North, Bassa, Barkin Ladi and Jos East. One infected passenger coughing in a crowded bus could potentially expose several others, who may subsequently take the infection into their homes, workplaces, schools and communities.
The Plateau State Government should act immediately by temporarily reducing the number of passengers allowed on each bus, thereby reducing overcrowding and creating better spacing. The buses should also be regularly and thoroughly sanitized, particularly high-touch surfaces such as handrails, door handles and seats, using appropriate alcohol-based or other approved disinfectants. These are simple preventive measures that can be implemented while the outbreak situation is being assessed and monitored.
Most importantly, health workers should be stationed at major metro-bus terminals to provide health education, promote vaccination, identify passengers with symptoms requiring urgent medical attention and facilitate prompt referral of suspected cases. Government should not wait until transmission escalates before taking action. The metro buses were introduced to protect the welfare of the people; protecting the health of those who use them must now be given equal priority. Prevention today can save lives tomorrow.
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