Lagos State on High Alert over Diphtheria Outbreak

The Lagos State government has said it is on high alert following an outbreak of diphtheria, which has recorded 10 confirmed cases from January 1 to March 27, 2025.

The outbreak, which has been recorded in several local government areas (LGAs), has sent health authorities into an immediate action mode as the authorities redouble efforts to control the outbreak.

The highest prevalence have been recorded in the Eti-Osa LGA, with 44 suspected cases. Other places that have been affected include Alimosho, Badagry, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Ojo, Mushin, and Lagos Island, leading to the growing concern in the area.

Health officials are in high alert and have established an emergency response system to monitor and contain the spread of the disease.

In response to the outbreak, Lagos State has activated an Emergency Operations Committee to coordinate efforts aimed at containing the spread of diphtheria.

One of the key interventions is a large-scale vaccination campaign that has already reached over 36,000 individuals. The vaccination effort is particularly focused on at-risk populations, including healthcare workers and suspected cases.

Health officials are also calling on people to observe protective measures, such as observing stringent hygiene levels, regular hand washing, and wearing hand sanitizers.

With masses expected to congregate in public events because of such celebrations as Eid-el-Fitr and Easter forthcoming, the public is being warned to avoid coming in close contact and maintain public health security.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that mainly affects the respiratory tract and throat. The symptoms are usually a sore throat, fever, difficulty in breathing, and swollen neck gland. If left untreated, the disease can progress to life-threatening complications like myocarditis.

Early detection and prompt medical treatment are the most important in preventing such complications.

Those with symptoms of diphtheria are being advised by the authorities to seek immediate medical care. Suspected and confirmed cases are also being treated free of charge at government-approved health centers in the state.

With the ongoing epidemic, people have been instructed by health experts to be cautious and watch all health warnings. Because of the high risks presented by mass gatherings and festive events during this season, the government is on high alert to ensure that the disease does not spread further.

The government of Lagos State has assured citizens that there are proper measures being implemented to solve the situation, such as constant observation, sensitization programs, and treating infected people for free. Authorities hope that with public cooperation, the epidemic will be kept under control soon before it becomes an overwhelming health crisis.

People are advised to get more information and updates from official health announcements and report suspected cases early.