Lagos State has recorded 53 suspected cases of diphtheria in 2026, with six confirmed through laboratory testing.
The Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, disclosed this during a press conference in Alausa, Lagos, on Wednesday.
Abayomi said all six confirmed cases were appropriately managed, while their contacts were traced and monitored throughout the incubation period.
He, however, clarified that there is currently no diphtheria outbreak in Lagos, noting that the state has intensified surveillance and preparedness because of active outbreaks in other parts of Nigeria.
“We are appealing to all Lagosians to remain calm. There is currently no outbreak of diphtheria in Lagos. We are taking precautionary measures,” Abayomi said.
The commissioner urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms including severe sore throat, fever, weakness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, neck swelling, or a white or greyish membrane at the back of the throat.
He explained that diphtheria is a bacterial respiratory infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which can produce a toxin capable of affecting vital organs, particularly the heart.
Abayomi advised residents who have travelled to states affected by diphtheria outbreaks or had contact with confirmed cases to avoid self-medication and seek medical care if symptoms develop.
He added that Lagos is strengthening disease surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing and follow-up of confirmed cases.
According to him, immunisation remains the most effective way to prevent diphtheria. He urged parents to ensure their children receive all three doses of the pentavalent vaccine.
Lagos currently has about 64 per cent full vaccination coverage, with some children only partially vaccinated.
Abayomi also disclosed that more than 1,000 public and private healthcare facilities across the state have been designated to manage suspected diphtheria cases.
Comments
Add a comment