Nigeria faces a severe diphtheria outbreak, with over 1,319 deaths reported by the NCDC. Persistent vaccination gaps, low immunization coverage, and limited laboratory capacity contribute to this public health crisis. Major affected states include Kano, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina, with high fatality rates observed. The government is initiating vaccination campaigns and community engagement to mitigate the outbreak.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that there have been 1,319 fatalities in the ongoing diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria. This information was published in the latest situation report from the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, severely impacts the throat and nose, releasing a toxic substance that may lead to complications such as breathing difficulties, heart failure, or nerve impairment.
Vaccination is critical for preventing diphtheria, while timely treatment with antitoxins and antibiotics is essential for managing the disease. The NCDC noted that since 2022, over 42,000 suspected cases are recorded across 37 states. The report specifically addresses persistent challenges, including low vaccination rates, poor laboratory capacity, and delays in case confirmations. As of now, Kano State alone is responsible for 75% of confirmed cases, totaling 18,108 out of 25,812.
Other states like Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina also face significant burdens, with respective confirmed cases counted at 2,334, 2,408, and 1,501. The case fatality rate stands at 5.1%, signifying that one in every twenty confirmed cases results in death, with certain states experiencing even higher mortality rates.
Recently, there were 23 new suspected cases reported; however, none were confirmed as laboratory delays have resulted in 56.5% of cases still being unclassified. The Federal Government has initiated reactive vaccination campaigns in hard-hit states and strengthened community engagement via traditional and religious leaders.
Expert evaluations highlight that late diagnoses and limited access to treatments significantly contribute to elevated fatality rates. Despite Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), only 4,981 (19.3%) of confirmed cases reported that they were fully vaccinated. Dr. Solomon Chollom emphasized the urgent need for mass vaccination campaigns aimed at children aged one to fourteen, who account for 62.9% of the confirmed cases.
Dr. Chollom also noted that the country’s capacity for laboratory testing is alarmingly limited. For 2024, all cases were primarily confirmed based on clinical symptoms, revealing a shortage in reagents and PCR capacity necessary for proper diphtheria diagnosis. This suggests concerns over possibly underreported or misdiagnosed cases.
Although the government has pledged to enhance laboratory capabilities and optimize PCR testing protocols, the execution has been slow. Experts recommend a comprehensive diphtheria vaccination initiative, enhanced disease surveillance, and a stable supply of diagnostic materials.
As Nigeria contends with one of the most significant diphtheria outbreaks in decades, health officials underscore the essentiality of heightened vaccination and surveillance efforts to prevent worsening conditions. Specific actions are being planned, including increased support for case management, data synchronization across affected regions, and improved laboratory diagnostics through clinical sample PCR testing. Furthermore, strategies to broaden vaccination coverage, especially among children, and to elevate public awareness through social media and community engagement are pivotal. Public health experts reiterate that vaccination remains the most effective defense against diphtheria and encourage parents to ensure their children are immunized.
The diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria is an alarming public health crisis, with over 1,300 deaths reported and ongoing vaccination challenges. High case fatality rates, particularly in vulnerable populations, highlight the urgent need for enhanced vaccination efforts, improved laboratory diagnostics, and comprehensive public health campaigns. By addressing these gaps, Nigeria can better manage and control the outbreak while safeguarding the health of its population.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
