Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Health authorities in Lagos State are ramping up efforts to curb a diphtheria outbreak that has seen 10 confirmed cases between January and March 2025.
This was contained in a press statement released on Sunday and signed by Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo.
According to the statement, Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, revealed that suspected cases fluctuated over time, with some days recording as many as 15 cases.
“Laboratory tests on 76 samples confirmed 10 positive cases, while 63 returned negative,” he said, adding that three samples from March 26 are still pending results.
The outbreak has affected multiple Local Government Areas, with Eti-Osa reporting the highest number of suspected cases. Other impacted areas include Alimosho, Badagry, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Ojo, Mushin, and Lagos Island.
“All confirmed cases remain under treatment to prevent further transmission,” Abayomi emphasized. He noted that 21 individuals had received Diphtheria Antitoxin treatment, with the highest number recorded at King’s College in Eti-Osa.
To contain the outbreak, the government has intensified contact tracing, identifying 118 individuals linked to infected patients, of whom 100 have been followed up.
“We have also provided prophylaxis to 36 individuals and continue targeted vaccination campaigns in affected areas,” the Commissioner stated. So far, over 36,000 people have been vaccinated, including frontline health workers and at-risk individuals.
Public health sensitization efforts have also been reinforced through community outreach and media campaigns.
With upcoming festive celebrations, Abayomi urged residents to maintain strict hygiene, wash hands frequently, and avoid crowded areas.
He stressed the importance of reporting symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and neck swelling promptly. Commending Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his swift intervention, he assured Lagosians of ongoing surveillance and response measures.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates. Cooperation from the public is crucial in containing this outbreak,” Professor Abayomi added.
Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, has been a public health concern in Lagos, Nigeria, due to periodic outbreaks. The disease primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to severe throat infections, breathing difficulties, and, in severe cases, heart and nerve damage.
