Since the beginning of 2023, Nigeria has been hit by a diphtheria outbreak that has affected 21 of its 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), 557 confirmed cases of diphtheria have been detected, including 73 deaths among the confirmed cases, with a case fatality ratio of 13%.

The NCDC was alerted to the suspected diphtheria outbreaks in Kano and Lagos States in December 2022. From 14 May 2022 to 9 April 2023, a total of 1439 suspected cases were reported, with the majority of cases from Kano, Yobe, and Katsina states. Of the suspected cases, 557 (39%) were confirmed, while 483 (34%) were discarded, and 399 (28%) are pending classification. Among the confirmed cases, laboratory-confirmed cases were reported from Kano, Lagos, Kaduna, Katsina, and Osun states.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious and potentially fatal vaccine-preventable disease that spreads mainly by direct contact or through the air via respiratory droplets. All age groups can be affected, but unimmunized children are particularly at risk.

To treat diphtheria, antitoxin and antibiotics can be administered. Vaccination against the disease has dramatically reduced the mortality and morbidity of diphtheria. The NCDC is working closely with the affected states to ensure prompt detection and treatment of cases, while also intensifying efforts to increase vaccination coverage across the country.

Nigeria has previously reported diphtheria outbreaks, with the most significant outbreak reported in 2011 affecting the rural areas of Borno State in the northeast of the country. The current outbreak highlights the need for ongoing efforts to strengthen disease surveillance, enhance routine immunization coverage, and improve access to healthcare services in Nigeria.