Diphtheria Outbreak Mortality Exceeds 1,300 in Nigeria Amid Vaccination Challenges

The NCDC reports 1,319 deaths in Nigeria due to a diphtheria outbreak since 2022, with significant vaccination gaps contributing to high fatality rates. Major affected regions include Kano and other northern states. Experts urge for comprehensive vaccination campaigns and improved testing facilities to combat the ongoing health crisis.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that the ongoing diphtheria outbreak has resulted in 1,319 fatalities across Nigeria. This information was disseminated through the latest situation report from the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre, which highlighted persistent issues such as low vaccination rates and inadequate laboratory facilities. Diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, potentially leading to severe complications including breathing difficulties and heart failure.

Since the outbreak began in 2022, over 42,000 suspected cases have surfaced from 37 states, with Kano State reporting the highest burden, comprising 75 percent of confirmed cases. Other significantly affected states include Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina. The NCDC indicated that the case fatality rate stands at 5.1 percent, with rates in some states even exceeding reported figures, raising alarm among health officials.

In the most recent week, 23 new suspected cases were noted, yet none have received confirmation due to delays in laboratory processes, contributing to 56.5 percent of cases remaining unclassified. In response, the Federal Government has initiated reactive vaccination campaigns in areas heavily impacted by the outbreak and engaged with community leaders. Despite existing vaccination programs, only 19.3 percent of confirmed cases received the necessary vaccination against diphtheria.

Dr. Solomon Chollom, a medical virologist, emphasized critical gaps in routine immunization, particularly in northern Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for mass vaccination campaigns targeting children aged one to 14. Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding laboratory testing capacity, as past cases lacked proper laboratory confirmation, which could lead to underreporting or misdiagnosis of the disease.

Health experts stress the imperative for a nationwide vaccination initiative, better disease surveillance, and consistent access to diagnostic materials. The government plans to increase support for case management and enhance PCR testing capabilities while broadening vaccinations to mitigate immunity gaps. Public health counsel indicates that preventative measures, such as routine immunizations for children, remain essential to combat the diphtheria threat.

The diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria has claimed over 1,319 lives, attributing this to low vaccination rates and inadequate diagnostics. Health authorities emphasize the urgency for mass vaccination campaigns aimed at children, enhanced laboratory testing capabilities, and improved disease surveillance. Without significant measures to address these challenges, Nigeria risks a worsening public health crisis.

Original Source: dailynigerian.com