The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported approximately 12,085 suspected cases of diphtheria infections as of September 11, 2024. Out of these cases, 7,784 have been confirmed in 170 local government areas spanning 21 states. The center made this announcement during a press briefing in Abuja.
The recorded death toll stands at 309 with a case fatality rate of 3.9%. The affected states include Kano, Bauchi, Katsina, Borno, Yobe, Edo, Jigawa, FCT, and Nasarawa.
Diphtheria is a severe bacterial infection caused by the corynebacterium species that primarily affects the nose, throat, and occasionally the skin. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, red eyes, and neck swelling. In more severe instances, a thick grey or white patch may develop on the tonsils or back of the throat, leading to breathing difficulties.
An epidemiology report spanning from week 22 in 2022 to week 35 in 2024 showed a total of 36,151 suspected cases reported across 37 states and the FCT. Among these, 21,938 cases were confirmed in 26 states.
The Director General of the NCDC emphasized the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment for diphtheria. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact, or touching contaminated objects. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and swollen glands in the neck.
Collaborating with various partners, the NCDC has been actively involved in developing guidelines, deploying resources, establishing laboratory networks, conducting case management and infection prevention training, and organizing vaccination campaigns to address the diphtheria outbreak effectively.