A recent diphtheria outbreak in Imo has led to the closure of schools following multiple fatalities, as reported by Daily Trust. The disease, caused by a toxin from the bacterium Corynebacterium, is preventable through routine childhood vaccinations.
Diphtheria predominantly affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Aboh Mbaise LGA Chairman, Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, confirmed the temporary school closures on May 26 in an effort to curb the spread. Parents have been advised to keep their children indoors to minimise exposure.
Alaribe noted that the World Health Organisation (WHO), alongside local health authorities, is actively investigating the outbreak. An isolation centre has been set up at Mbutu Health Centre for affected children. He strongly encouraged parents to vaccinate their children against diphtheria, stating, “Vaccinations are crucial for preventing disease spread and safeguarding our children’s health.”
The public has been urged to remain calm and cooperate with health authorities as they work to manage the outbreak.
This outbreak occurs amid rising national concerns about diphtheria in Nigeria. On March 12, the House of Representatives called for a nationwide vaccination campaign following the death of a 12-year-old student at King’s College, Lagos, where 14 other students were hospitalised.
Lawmakers expressed alarm over the disease’s toll, reporting over 24,000 confirmed cases and more than 1,200 deaths nationwide since 2022. They warned that without urgent intervention, more schools could face similar outbreaks. In addition to advocating for mass vaccinations, they demanded a review of health and safety measures in federal unity colleges and called for enhanced public awareness campaigns regarding diphtheria prevention.
