The Lagos State government has activated emergency response protocols following a deadly diphtheria outbreak at King’s College Victoria Island Annexe, resulting in two students’ death and 14 others hospitalized.
The outbreak was first identified on February 22, when a 12-year-old student exhibited symptoms of diphtheria, including a sore throat and fever, and was quickly referred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
Despite aggressive treatment, including the administration of diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics, the student’s condition worsened, leading to myocarditis, a severe complication of diphtheria that affects the heart. Sadly, the student died on March 6, after a two-week battle with the disease.
In response to the situation, Lagos State Commissioner for health, Professor Akin Abayomi said the Lagos Emergency Operations Committee launched an immediate investigation, tracing 34 individuals who had close contact with the student.
According to him “Alarmingly, 14 of these contacts began showing symptoms consistent with diphtheria. These individuals were promptly admitted to LUTH’s Children’s Emergency Unit, where medical staff worked swiftly to assess their condition.
“Of the 14, 12 were confirmed to have early-stage diphtheria and received intensive treatment, including antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin therapy.
“Upon further inspection of the school’s boarding facilities, health authorities identified critical gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols.”
While the outbreak has raised growing concerns, Prof. Abayomi noted that the situation is under control.
“Early detection and prompt treatment are key to saving lives.