Diphtheria: What You Need to Know About This Deadly Infection

• Diphtheria: Symptoms, Prevention, and Who Is at Risk
• How Diphtheria Spreads and Steps to Protect Yourself
• Vaccination and Early Detection: Key to Preventing Diphtheria

The Lagos State Government has launched an emergency vaccination campaign for students at King’s College Annexe in Victoria Island following an outbreak of diphtheria at the school EKO HOT BLOG reports.

Understanding Diphtheria

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by toxin-producing Corynebacterium species. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can also be transmitted via contaminated objects or direct contact with infected individuals.

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Ongoing Response and Surveillance

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) continues to monitor and respond to diphtheria cases in Lagos and other states. Laboratory-confirmed cases have been recorded, and the NCDC is collaborating with State Ministries of Health and partners to strengthen disease surveillance and public health response. Efforts include public awareness campaigns on preventive measures to curb the spread of the infection.

Who Is at Risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to diphtheria, including:

• Children and adults who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.
• Individuals living in crowded or unsanitary environments.
• Healthcare workers and others exposed to infected persons.

Symptoms of Diphtheria

The disease typically manifests 2 to 10 days after exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Fever, runny nose, sore throat, and persistent cough.
• Red eyes (conjunctivitis) and neck swelling.
• In severe cases, a thick grey or white patch may form on the tonsils or back of the throat, causing difficulty breathing.
  

  

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Prevention and Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent diphtheria is through vaccination. The Nigerian childhood immunization schedule recommends three doses of the pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age.

To reduce the risk of infection, the NCDC advises:

• Parents to ensure their children receive all recommended diphtheria vaccinations.
• Healthcare workers to remain vigilant and promptly identify suspected cases.
• Individuals with symptoms to self-isolate and notify local health authorities.
• Close contacts of confirmed cases to receive antibiotic prophylaxis and, if necessary, diphtheria antitoxin treatment.
• Healthcare workers at high risk to be vaccinated against diphtheria.

For further assistance, the NCDC urges the public to contact the toll-free helpline (6232) or report cases to local health officials.

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