Diphtheria Outbreak in Nigeria: Lagos State Reports 23 New Cases

Nigeria reported 23 new suspected diphtheria cases in the 10th week of 2025, primarily in Lagos State. An outbreak at Kings College Lagos led to an emergency vaccination campaign. NCDC data indicates significant fatalities and the need for improved vaccination rates, especially among children. Diphtheria remains a serious public health threat requiring immediate attention and action.

In the 10th epidemiological week of 2025, Nigeria reported 23 new suspected cases of diphtheria, with Lagos State being the most impacted area, accounting for 20 cases. Following a recent outbreak at Kings College Lagos, where 14 students were infected and one died, a heightened response was initiated. The Lagos State Government has conducted an emergency vaccination campaign targeting students and staff.

Most affected students are currently receiving treatment at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and are demonstrating recovery. School principal Mogaji Zakaria reported ongoing measures, including enhanced hygiene protocols and mask mandates, although some parents have raised concerns over inadequate sanitary conditions. Lagos State’s Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, confirmed that the situation is under control as 12 of the students are responding well to treatment.

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), there have been 1,319 diphtheria-related deaths in Nigeria from May 2022 to March 2025. From Epi-Week 19, 2022, to Epi-Week 10, 2025, a cumulative total of 42,642 suspected cases were reported across 37 states and 350 local government areas. The majority of confirmed cases were reported in Kano, Yobe, and Katsina states.

Children aged one to fourteen represent 62.9 percent of the confirmed cases, yet only 19.3 percent of these children were fully vaccinated with the diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine. The case fatality rate among confirmed cases is noted to be 5.1 percent, with a total of 1,319 deaths documented.

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. Untreated, the disease can result in severe complications including myocarditis and breathing difficulties.

The recent surge in diphtheria cases in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, emphasizes the necessity for vigilant health measures and vaccination. The response from local authorities, including emergency vaccination campaigns and improved hygiene protocols, demonstrates a proactive approach to controlling the outbreak. However, the concerning vaccination rates among affected children underline the critical need for ongoing public health education and infrastructure improvements to prevent further incidences of this grave infectious disease.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com