Diphtheria Crisis in Nigeria: Urgent Call for Action from Authorities

Since 2022, diphtheria has caused 1,269 deaths in Nigeria, with 24,804 cases confirmed by January 2025. The recent death of a King’s College student reinforces the urgent need for improved vaccination, disease surveillance, and public awareness. The government is called to take immediate action to control the outbreak and prevent further deaths.

Nigeria is currently grappling with a serious health crisis as diphtheria has resulted in 1,269 fatalities across 18 states since 2022. As of January 26, 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) recorded 24,804 confirmed cases. However, government responses have been insufficient, highlighting significant shortcomings within Nigeria’s public health framework.

A recent incident at King’s College, Lagos, brought the crisis to light when a 12-year-old student succumbed to diphtheria after showing symptoms on February 22, 2025. He received timely treatment at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital but tragically died from myocarditis complications on March 6, 2025. His death affected 34 close contacts, 14 of whom developed symptoms requiring hospitalization.

Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily impacts the throat and nose, producing harmful toxins. Key symptoms include severe sore throat, fever, swollen neck (commonly referred to as “bull neck”), difficulty in breathing, and grayish-white patches in the throat. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and can also linger on contaminated surfaces, presenting risks in crowded places such as schools.

Despite being preventable through vaccines, Nigeria faces critical challenges necessitating immediate attention. Key issues include:
– Poor vaccination coverage, with many children lacking access to the DTaP vaccine, leaving them susceptible.
– Weak disease surveillance, which delays outbreak detection and hinders timely containment efforts.
– Insufficient public awareness about diphtheria’s dangers and vaccination importance, resulting in late hospital visits.

In light of the Lagos outbreak, it is imperative for authorities to undertake urgent measures:
– Implement aggressive vaccination initiatives nationwide, particularly in high-risk regions.
– Enhance disease surveillance to facilitate early detection and response to new cases.
– Promote public education regarding diphtheria symptoms and preventative measures through various channels including schools and media.

In addition to governmental responsibilities, the community must also act:
– Ensure that children receive all vaccinations, including necessary booster shots.
– Practice stringent hygiene measures, such as regular handwashing.
– Seek prompt medical attention when symptoms arise.

Nigeria is confronted with a preventable health crisis that should not lead to further fatalities in 2025. The incident at King’s College reflects a broader pattern of avoidable deaths, raising the critical question: Will authorities respond effectively to avert future tragedies?

The ongoing diphtheria crisis in Nigeria underscores the pressing need for enhanced public health measures. With 1,269 lives lost and numerous cases reported, decisive action is crucial. Immediate focus on vaccination programs, stronger disease surveillance, and comprehensive public awareness can significantly mitigate further risks. The responsibility lies not only with government entities but also with individuals and families to eliminate diphtheria as a looming threat in Nigeria.

Original Source: allafrica.com