Lagos State has recorded 10 confirmed cases of diphtheria between January 1 and March 27, 2025, with health authorities ramping up efforts to curb the outbreak.
According to Prof Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, laboratory tests conducted on 76 samples confirmed 10 positive cases, while 63 samples returned negative results.
The outbreak has been reported in multiple Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Eti-Osa being the most affected, recording 44 suspected cases. Other impacted LGAs include Alimosho, Badagry, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Ojo, Mushin, and Lagos Island.
To contain the outbreak, the state government has:
– Mandated admission for treatment: All confirmed cases must remain on admission for treatment to prevent further transmission.
– Intensified contact tracing: 118 individuals identified as potential contacts of infected persons, with follow-up completed for 100 individuals.
– Prophylaxis administration: 36 individuals across affected LGAs received prophylaxis to prevent further spread.
– Vaccination efforts: 36,310 individuals vaccinated, including 7,473 aged 9-17 years and 28,837 aged 18 years and above.
– Risk communication and public health sensitization: Community-based social mobilization and media campaigns reinforced to maintain high levels of hygiene and prevent further transmission.
The Commissioner advised the public to report symptoms such as cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, red eyes, neck swelling, and thick grey or white patches on the throat immediately, as treatment for suspected cases is available free of charge at designated government health facilities.