Nigeria has reported 23 new suspected cases of diphtheria in the 10th epidemiological week of 2025, with Lagos State accounting for 20 cases, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
Katsina State recorded three cases.
The rise in Lagos follows an outbreak at King’s College Lagos, where 14 students were infected and one died. The state government has launched an emergency vaccination campaign for students and staff. Most infected students are receiving treatment at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and are improving.
Nationally, Nigeria has recorded 1,319 diphtheria-related deaths between May 2022 and March 2025. A total of 42,642 suspected cases were reported across 37 states and 350 local government areas. Kano State recorded the highest number of confirmed cases (18,108), followed by Yobe (2,408) and Bauchi (2,334).
Diphtheria, caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, spreads through respiratory droplets or contact with infected individuals. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, and swollen neck glands. Untreated, it can lead to severe complications like heart inflammation or breathing difficulties.
