Nigeria reports 23 new suspected Diphtheria cases, mainly in Lagos State, where an outbreak at Kings College has prompted vaccination campaigns. NCDC data shows significant historical fatalities and a high proportion of unvaccinated children among confirmed cases. Authorities are responding with improved health measures to manage the situation.
In the latest epidemiological report for the tenth week of 2025, Nigeria has documented 23 new suspected cases of Diphtheria, with Lagos State representing the majority at 20 cases. Following a recent outbreak at Kings College in Lagos, where 14 students were infected and one death occurred, Katsina State has reported three cases, underscoring the rising concern surrounding this infectious disease.
In response to the outbreak at Kings College, the Lagos State Government promptly launched an emergency vaccination initiative for both students and faculty members. Most infected students are currently receiving care at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and are reportedly showing positive signs of recovery. Principal Mogaji Zakaria has highlighted that measures such as improved hygiene protocols and mandatory mask-wearing have been implemented to manage the outbreak’s spread.
However, there has been criticism from parents regarding the school’s sanitary conditions, prompting calls for enhanced infrastructure to ensure student safety. The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, reassured the public that the outbreak is being effectively managed, with 12 students responding well to their treatment and expected to be discharged soon.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reports that from May 2022 to March 2025, the country saw 1,319 fatalities attributed to Diphtheria. Cumulatively, 42,642 suspected cases were recorded across 37 states and 350 local government areas (LGAs) within the same timeframe. States such as Kano, Yobe, and Katsina have accounted for the vast majority of these cases, representing a significant public health concern.
Out of the suspected cases, approximately 60.5 percent have been confirmed, with cases distributed across 184 LGAs in 26 states. Children between the ages of one and 14 years constituted a large portion of these confirmed cases, yet only a small percentage had been fully vaccinated against the disease. The case fatality rate stands at 5.1 percent, reflecting the severe implications of this outbreak.
Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, presenting with symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. The disease can lead to serious complications if left untreated, emphasizing the importance of swift medical intervention and preventive measures in controlling its spread.
The recent increase in Diphtheria cases in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, highlights a concerning public health issue. The swift response by local authorities through vaccination campaigns and improved hygiene protocols is pivotal in controlling the outbreak. Continuous monitoring and public awareness will be essential to safeguard the population, especially vulnerable groups such as children. The low vaccination rates among affected children indicate a need for enhanced immunization efforts to prevent future outbreaks.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
