Diphtheria Outbreak: Lagos Government Activates Emergency Response

Diphtheria Outbreak: Lagos Government Activates Emergency Response

The Lagos State government has activated its Emergency Response Committee following a diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Lagos, Victoria Island Annex. Health Commissioner Akin Abayomi reassured the public on Monday, advising against panic and confirming that measures are in place to manage the situation………READ MORE

The first case involved a 12-year-old boy who developed a sore throat and fever on February 22. He was promptly treated at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) but tragically passed away on March 6 due to myocarditis, a severe complication of diphtheria.

The government has been monitoring 34 of the boy’s close contacts, with 14 showing symptoms of diphtheria. These students have been treated with antibiotics and antitoxoid serum. An inspection of the school revealed areas needing improvement in infection control.

The government, working with federal agencies, will begin a targeted vaccination campaign for all students at the school and potentially expand it statewide. A public health announcement will soon be made to raise awareness of symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and difficulty breathing.