Lagos State has confirmed 10 cases of diphtheria between January 1 and March 27, 2025, with 36,310 residents vaccinated in response to the outbreak.
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, announced the numbers in a statement issued on Sunday, revealing that multiple local government areas (LGAs) have been impacted. Eti-Osa recorded the highest number, with 44 suspected cases.
“Laboratory tests conducted on 76 samples confirmed 10 positive diphtheria cases, while 63 samples returned negative results. Three samples collected on March 26 are still pending results,” Abayomi said.
He also highlighted key locations such as King’s College in Eti-Osa and Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Mushin as focal points for intervention.
The state government has been proactive, providing Diphtheria Antitoxin treatment to 21 individuals, including 14 at King’s College. Abayomi confirmed that all confirmed cases are currently being treated in hospitals.
A robust vaccination campaign has seen 36,310 individuals vaccinated, with a focus on young people and healthcare workers. “Of the 36,310 vaccinated, 7,473 are aged 9 to 17 years, and 28,837 are aged 18 years and above, including 13,633 healthcare workers,” Abayomi added.
In addition to vaccination efforts, 118 potential contacts of infected persons have been traced, with 36 individuals receiving preventive treatment.
The government continues to intensify surveillance and treatment, calling on residents to adhere to hygiene measures and report symptoms promptly.
“We urge residents to maintain hygiene, wash hands regularly, and avoid crowded places, especially as we prepare for the Eid-el-Fitr and Easter celebrations,” said Abayomi.
The Lagos State government has pledged to continue its efforts to control the outbreak with ongoing monitoring and public health advisories.