The Imo State Government has dismissed rumours circulating on social media that a student at Technical Training College (TTC), Irete, in Owerri West LGA, died of diphtheria.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu, the government clarified that the viral video claiming a diphtheria outbreak is false and misleading.

Dr. Egu explained that health officials from the state’s Department of Public Health promptly investigated the claim and found no link to diphtheria or any communicable disease. Instead, the student’s case is suspected to be related to a non-infectious illness, possibly a form of cancer (malignancy), which is still under medical review.

She confirmed that active surveillance and preliminary checks have revealed no diphtheria case in the school or the surrounding community.

“We have professionals on the ground, and the situation is under control. There is absolutely no cause for panic,” Dr. Egu assured.

The commissioner also stressed the dangers of spreading unverified information, especially in school environments where parents and students can be easily alarmed.

“Misinformation can create needless fear and disrupt the efforts of public health workers. We urge the public to verify news from credible sources before sharing,” she said.

The Ministry of Health is continuing to monitor the area closely and reaffirmed its commitment to keeping residents safe and informed.

Parents and guardians are advised to remain calm and trust the official updates coming from the health authorities. There is no diphtheria outbreak in Imo State at this time.