Urgent Need for Action Against Diphtheria Crisis in Nigeria
Diphtheria in Nigeria has resulted in 1,269 deaths across 18 states since 2022, with reports indicating 24,804 confirmed cases as of January 2025. Despite the mounting toll, official responses have been lackluster, exposing deficiencies in public health systems. The recent death of a 12-year-old student has intensified calls for urgent action including improved vaccination drives, disease detection, and public education to combat this preventable illness.
Nigeria is facing a severe health crisis as diphtheria has resulted in the deaths of 1,269 individuals across 18 states since 2022, with 24,804 confirmed cases reported as of January 26, 2025, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Despite the alarming statistics, the response from health authorities has been inadequate, indicating significant weaknesses within the national public health system.
The recent death of a 12-year-old student at King’s College, Lagos, underscores the urgency of this issue. After exhibiting symptoms on February 22, 2025, he was taken to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for treatment. Despite receiving antibiotics and a diphtheria antitoxin, he succumbed to complications arising from myocarditis on March 6, 2025. Subsequent contact tracing highlighted that 34 individuals were affected, with 14 requiring hospitalization due to symptoms.
Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, presents serious health risks as it primarily affects the respiratory tract and can lead to severe complications, including heart and neurological issues. Symptoms include a severe sore throat, fever, swollen neck, difficulty breathing, and grayish-white patches in the throat. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, making it particularly dangerous in crowded environments such as schools.
Despite the availability of effective vaccines, Nigeria continues to experience high mortality rates from diphtheria. Experts identify three main factors that exacerbate this ongoing crisis: poor vaccination coverage due to low immunization rates in many states, insufficient disease surveillance which delays outbreak detection, and a lack of public awareness regarding the disease and its prevention.
The outbreak in Lagos serves as a critical warning sign, necessitating immediate action from government authorities. Recommended responses include launching aggressive nationwide vaccination campaigns, enhancing disease surveillance to facilitate early detection, and increasing public awareness through educational initiatives in schools and communities.
Additionally, families must also contribute to combating the disease by ensuring that children receive their vaccinations and promoting hygiene practices. Swift medical intervention is crucial at the onset of symptoms. Diphtheria can be effectively prevented, and the tragic case at King’s College should not be repeated. Nigeria’s health authorities must act decisively to avert further loss of life as 2025 progresses. The pressing question remains: Will action be taken before more individuals succumb to this preventable disease?
In summary, Nigeria is grappling with a troubling diphtheria outbreak that has claimed over 1,200 lives, highlighting a systemic failure within the public health infrastructure. The recent death of a student exemplifies the urgent need for improved vaccination efforts, disease surveillance, and public awareness campaigns. Both government action and community participation are essential to halt the spread of this preventable disease. It is imperative that immediate and effective measures are enacted to safeguard the health of Nigerians and prevent further tragedies.
Original Source: allafrica.com
