Lagos government activates emergency response to diphtheria

Lagos government activates emergency response to diphtheria.

Lagos State Government has activated its Emergency Response Committee following a diphtheria outbreak in the boarding house of King’s College, Lagos, Victoria Island Annex.

The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed the outbreak and assured the public that the situation was under control.

He urged residents to avoid panic as the government intensified measures to contain the infection.

The outbreak was first detected on February 22, when a 12-year-old student presented symptoms and was admitted to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

Despite receiving treatment, he succumbed to myocarditis, a severe complication of the infection, on March 6.

Health officials identified 34 close contacts, with 14 developing symptoms. Of these, 12 were admitted for treatment and are recovering.

The government has begun strengthening infection prevention measures at the school and plans a targeted vaccination campaign for students and healthcare workers.

Abayomi emphasized the importance of hygiene, early detection, and vaccination to prevent further infections.

The state has 500,000 doses of diphtheria vaccine ready for deployment in high-risk areas.

The Emergency Operations Centre will meet daily to assess and respond to the situation.

Health authorities, including WHO, NCDC, and NPHCDA, are collaborating with the Lagos State Government to curb the outbreak and protect residents.