Kano Takes the Brunt: Nigeria Reports 836 Confirmed Diphtheria Cases with 80 Fatalities

Nigeria has been grappling with a significant health challenge as it recorded 836 confirmed cases and 80 deaths from diphtheria during the months of May and June 2023.

According to the recent diphtheria situation report issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), these confirmed cases were spread across 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in seven states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The NCDC revealed that during this period, a total of 2,455 suspected cases were reported in 24 states. Alarmingly, 71.5 percent of the confirmed cases were found in children between the ages of 2 and 14 years.

Although diphtheria is preventable through vaccination, the report showed that only 181 out of the 836 confirmed cases (approximately 21.7 percent) had received the necessary "diphtheria toxin-containing vaccine."

Analyzing the distribution of cases, Kano state emerged as the most affected, accounting for 819 out of the 836 confirmed cases. Lagos State followed with eight cases, while Yobe and Katsina states reported three and two cases, respectively. The FCT, Osun, Kaduna, and Cross River states each recorded a single case.

Moreover, the report highlighted that a substantial 98.0 percent of suspected cases were concentrated in Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Lagos, the FCT, Sokoto, and Zamfara states.

Diphtheria, as described by the NCDC, is a severe bacterial infection caused by the Corynebacterium species, affecting the nose, throat, and occasionally the skin. It is particularly risky for individuals who have not received the pentavalent vaccine, those living in crowded and unsanitary environments, and healthcare workers exposed to potential cases of diphtheria. The disease spreads through direct contact with infected individuals, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated items.

Common symptoms of diphtheria include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and neck swelling. In severe cases, a thick grey or white patch can form on the tonsils and/or back of the throat, leading to breathing difficulties.

To prevent the spread of the disease, the NCDC emphasized the importance of children receiving three doses of the pentavalent vaccine, as per the recommended childhood immunization schedule. Healthcare workers were also urged to remain vigilant and watch for any signs of diphtheria, while individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of the disease should isolate themselves and inform their local government area's state disease surveillance officer.