Diphtheria Outbreak: 1,191 Nigerians Dead in 17 Months — NCDC

NCDC Reports 1,191 Diphtheria-Related Deaths in Nigeria

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the...

Nigeria's Diphtheria Outbreak Update: Cases Decline, Vaccines Available - Experts Stress Continued Vigilance

Nigeria is currently battling a diphtheria outbreak, with alarming numbers released by Dr. Muzzammil Gadanya, Incident Manager of the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre. The country has recorded over 38,000 suspected cases, with 23,000 confirmed cases, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. If left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences, including damage to the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. Even with timely medical intervention, diphtheria can be deadly, especially among children.

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that diphtheria is a highly contagious vaccine-preventable disease. The organization recommends early reporting and management of suspected cases, along with vaccination of high-risk populations, such as children under five years old, schoolchildren, and healthcare workers.

Facts About Diphtheria:

Transmission: Spread through direct contact or respiratory droplets 

Symptoms: Sore throat, fever, grey or white patch at the back of the throat, swollen lymph nodes, and barking cough 

Treatment: Diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics 

Prevention: Vaccination with diphtheria-containing vaccines 

It's crucial for Nigeria to continue its efforts in combating this outbreak, ensuring access to vaccination and medical treatment, particularly in affected areas.

Nigeria's efforts to combat the diphtheria outbreak are paying off, with a significant reduction in cases nationwide, according to Dr. Muzzammil Gadanya, Incident Manager of the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre. The primary focus now is to assess and strengthen response mechanisms to prevent further spread.

Takeaways from the Review Meeting:

Assessing Response Mechanisms: Evaluating Nigeria's current response to the outbreak

Strengthening Coordination: Enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to prevent further spread

Vaccine Availability: Routine immunization vaccines are available to sustain progress in containing the disease

Dr. Gadanya emphasized the importance of continued efforts to maintain progress in controlling the outbreak. Meanwhile, Dr. Manir Jega, Director of Healthcare at the Nigeria Red Cross, highlighted the organization's role as an auxiliary to the government in supporting the response efforts.

Nigeria Red Cross' Support:

Enhancing Surveillance: Supporting the surveillance system for early detection and response

Auxiliary Role: Serving as a supplementary support system to the government's efforts

The Nigeria Red Cross has been instrumental in detecting and reporting cases, including the first cases in Dikwa, Borno State, in November 2023. With combined efforts from government agencies, organizations like the Nigeria Red Cross, and international partners such as UNICEF and WHO, Nigeria is making strides in combating the diphtheria outbreak.

“Since the outbreak of diphtheria, we have supported the government by sending 3,700 community-based volunteers, who also engaged in house to house sensitisation,” he said.

“We also sensitised the populace by road shows, educating them on the signs and systems of the disease.”

Key stakeholders converged to assess Nigeria's response to the diphtheria outbreak, aiming to enhance strategies and pinpoint areas for improvement.

Meeting Objective:

• Evaluate current strategies
• Identify areas for enhancement
• Strengthen collaboration

Attendees included:

• Nigerian Red Cross Society
• International Federation of Red Cross
• Sub-national representatives (State and Local Government officials)
• National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

This gathering facilitated open dialogue, fostering a unified approach to combat the outbreak and ensure effective disease control measures.

Expected Outcomes:

• Revised response strategies
• Enhanced inter-agency coordination
• Improved resource allocation
• Strengthened community engagement

Through collaborative efforts, stakeholders can enhance Nigeria's diphtheria response, drive down cases, and protect lives.