In response to the alarming spread of diphtheria in Nigeria, the European Union (EU) has released a sum of EUR 150,000 for emergency assistance. The funds were released on 28 March and will be channeled through the Nigerian Red Cross to mitigate the impact of the disease on affected and at-risk communities.

Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a significant increase in diphtheria cases in Nigeria, particularly in the states of Kano, Katsina, Lagos, and Osun. The situation worsened in March with 733 suspected cases and 89 deaths recorded.

The EU funding is expected to support the Nigerian Red Cross in implementing a range of measures to contain the spread of diphtheria. These measures include providing emergency medical assistance to affected communities, conducting vaccination campaigns, and raising public awareness about the disease.

The EU's decision to provide emergency funding has been welcomed by health officials in Nigeria, who have been struggling to contain the outbreak. Speaking about the funding, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, said: "We are grateful to the European Union for their support in responding to this outbreak. The funds will go a long way in helping us to save lives and prevent the further spread of diphtheria in Nigeria."

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe respiratory problems, heart failure, and even death. It is preventable through vaccination, and health officials in Nigeria have urged members of the public to get vaccinated and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of the disease.

The EU funding is expected to provide much-needed relief to communities affected by the outbreak and support efforts to contain the spread of diphtheria in Nigeria.