Nigeria has recorded 23 new suspected diphtheria cases, mainly in Lagos State. Recent outbreaks at Kings College revealed 14 student infections and one death. An emergency vaccination campaign has been launched, as the NCDC reported over 42,000 suspected cases and significant fatalities since May 2022. Effective responses and vaccinations are crucial for combating the disease.
As of the 10th epidemiological week of 2025, Nigeria has reported 23 new suspected cases of diphtheria, with Lagos State being the most severely affected, contributing 20 of these cases. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) recorded Lagos’ outbreak, particularly tracing it back to Kings College, where outbreaks among 14 students have resulted in one fatality.
In response to the outbreak at Kings College, the Lagos State Government has launched an emergency vaccination drive for both students and staff. Currently, most of the students receiving treatment at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) are reportedly showing signs of recovery. The principal of Kings College, Mogaji Zakaria, has implemented new hygiene measures and mask mandates to mitigate further spread, though grievances from parents regarding sanitary conditions persist.
The NCDC’s latest data reveals that since May 2022, Nigeria has experienced 1,319 diphtheria-related deaths. From May 2022 to March 2025, there have been a total of 42,642 suspected cases reported across 37 states and 350 local government areas, primarily concentrated in states such as Kano, Yobe, and Katsina, which account for the majority of cases.
Of the reported suspected cases, 25,812, or 60.5 percent, have been confirmed, with a concerning case fatality rate of 5.1 percent. Approximately 62.9 percent of confirmed cases pertain to children aged one to 14 years, yet only 19.3 percent of these children are reported to have received the complete diphtheria vaccination.
Diphtheria is a severe bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, affecting the respiratory system, particularly the throat and nasal passages. The disease is transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected individuals, with symptoms that may include sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Without treatment, diphtheria can result in severe complications, including myocarditis and respiratory failure.
The recent outbreak of diphtheria in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced vaccination and sanitation measures. With recent reports indicating a significant number of confirmed cases and deaths, it is critical to prioritize public health initiatives that address vaccination coverage among children and improve infrastructure within educational institutions. Preemptive actions can help control future outbreaks and mitigate the disease’s impact on communities.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
