The NCDC reported 1,319 deaths due to a diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria, highlighting issues such as low vaccination rates and inadequate laboratory capacity. Various states report high case fatality rates, particularly in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos. The report stresses the urgent need for mass vaccinations and improved disease surveillance to combat the outbreak effectively.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that the ongoing diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria has led to 1,319 fatalities. This information was shared in their recent report from the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre, indicating significant challenges in combatting the disease. Vaccination is essential for prevention, coupled with early treatment involving antitoxins and antibiotics for affected individuals.
Since 2022, there have been over 42,000 suspected cases across 37 states, with Kano State alone accounting for 75 percent of confirmed cases. The case fatality rate has reached 5.1 percent, leading to alarmingly high mortality rates in specific regions, including Kaduna, Plateau, Lagos, and Adamawa.
In the latest reporting period, 23 new suspected cases were identified but none have been confirmed, largely due to delays in laboratory processing. The NCDC reported that reactive vaccination campaigns are being implemented in high-burden areas, alongside community engagement initiatives with traditional and religious leaders.
Despite the federal government’s efforts through the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), only 19.3 percent of confirmed cases had received full vaccination. Dr. Solomon Chollom highlighted the critical immunisation gap in northern Nigeria and emphasized the urgent need for mass vaccination targeting children aged one to 14 years, who constitute a large proportion of confirmed cases.
The NCDC faces challenges due to limited testing capacity, as many cases were confirmed only by clinical symptoms in 2024. This limitation raises concerns about the true extent of the outbreak, and critics have urged the government for improvements in laboratory testing protocols. Recommendations include launching a nationwide vaccination initiative and enhancing disease surveillance.
Health officials assert that preventive vaccination remains the most effective defense against diphtheria, encouraging parents to ensure their children receive all routine immunisations to safeguard public health.
The situation regarding the diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria necessitates immediate and decisive action to improve vaccination rates and laboratory testing capabilities. With over 1,300 deaths reported and significant gaps in vaccination, particularly in northern states, the health authorities must prioritize mass vaccination campaigns and robust disease surveillance to mitigate further health crises. Public health experts reiterate that preventive measures and community engagement are vital in addressing this public health emergency.
Original Source: dailynigerian.com
