DIPHTHERIA OUTBREAK: LAGOS RECORDS 10 CONFIRMED CASES IN THREE MONTHS
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Lagos State has confirmed 10 diphtheria cases between January 1 and March 27, 2025, as health officials ramp up efforts to contain the outbreak. According to Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, daily suspected cases have varied, peaking at 15 on some days and dropping to as low as one on others.
Providing an update over the weekend, he stated that of 76 samples tested, 10 were positive, 63 were negative, and three collected on March 26 are awaiting results.
The outbreak has affected multiple Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Eti-Osa recording the highest number of suspected cases (44). Other impacted LGAs include Alimosho, Badagry, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Ojo, Mushin, and Lagos Island.
Prof. Abayomi stressed that all confirmed cases must remain hospitalized for treatment to curb further spread and urged public cooperation with health authorities.
“As part of the state’s response, 21 individuals have received Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) treatment, with King’s College, Eti-Osa, accounting for the highest number of recipients – 14. Other beneficiaries were from Lagos State Model School, Meiran, and various locations in Alimosho, Kosofe, and Badagry”, the Commissioner said.
Abayomi stated that data analysis from the outbreak report shows that the outbreak peaked in the third, fourth, and tenth weeks of 2025, with four cases confirmed each week. He, however, noted that a decline in the number of cases in recent weeks indicates that containment measures may be yielding positive results.
“The state government has intensified contact tracing efforts, with 118 individuals identified as potential contacts of infected persons. Out of these, follow-up has been completed for 100 individuals, while 18 are still pending. Additionally, 36 individuals across affected LGAs have received prophylaxis to prevent further spread”, he said.
Prof. Abayomi praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his prompt and strategic response to the outbreak. He also acknowledged the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF for their technical support and resources in tackling the disease.
He reassured residents that the state government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and its partners, is strengthening surveillance, treatment, and prevention efforts. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates. Residents should stay informed and follow all public health guidelines,” he stated.
The Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting public health and urged residents to cooperate with health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent future occurrences.
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