Diphtheria Crisis in Nigeria: Over 1,300 Deaths Amid Vaccination Gaps

Nigeria is experiencing a severe diphtheria crisis, with over 1,319 deaths reported. The NCDC cites major challenges including low vaccination rates and limited diagnostic capabilities. High case fatality rates in several states raise urgent concerns. The government plans to enhance vaccination campaigns and community engagement to address these issues.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a grave diphtheria crisis, with over 1,319 deaths recorded amid low vaccination rates. This information was detailed in the NCDC’s latest situation report from the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre, published on Sunday.

Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily affects the throat and nose, producing a toxin that can lead to severe complications, including respiratory issues and heart failure. Vaccination remains the foremost preventive measure, and timely interventions with antitoxins and antibiotics are vital for effective management of the disease.

To date, over 42,000 suspected diphtheria cases have been reported across 37 Nigerian states since 2022. The NCDC highlighted ongoing challenges, such as insufficient vaccination coverage, limited laboratory capacity, and delays in confirming cases, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

Particularly alarming is Kano State, which represents 75 percent of confirmed cases, followed by other high-burden states like Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina. The reported case fatality rate stands at 5.1 percent, with significantly higher mortality rates in states such as Kaduna (25 percent), Plateau (48 percent), Lagos (83 percent), and Adamawa (80 percent).

Recently, 23 new suspected cases were reported, predominantly in Lagos and Katsina, though their confirmation remains pending, with over half of cases still unclassified due to laboratory delays. In response, the Nigerian government has initiated vaccination campaigns and community engagement efforts to enhance immunization rates in severely affected areas.

Public health experts note that delays in diagnosis and limited access to treatment contribute to the high fatality rates observed. Despite the government’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), only 19.3 percent of confirmed diphtheria cases were fully vaccinated against the disease, indicating critical gaps in immunization, especially in northern Nigeria.

Dr. Solomon Chollom, a medical virologist, highlighted the urgent need for mass vaccination campaigns targeting children aged 1 to 14, who constitute a significant majority of confirmed cases. He also expressed concern over Nigeria’s testing capacity, noting that in 2024, many cases were confirmed solely based on symptoms rather than laboratory tests, indicating a shortage of essential diagnostic resources.

The government aims to enhance laboratory capacities and improve PCR testing protocols but has faced challenges in swift implementation. Experts urge for enhanced nationwide vaccination drives, improved disease surveillance, and a consistent supply of diagnostic materials to adequately combat the crisis.

As Nigeria battles one of its most severe diphtheria outbreaks, health officials stress the urgency of vaccination and surveillance improvements to prevent further deterioration. The government’s proposed initiatives include bolstering case management, enhancing laboratory diagnostics, expanding vaccination efforts among children, and increasing public awareness through various platforms.

In conclusion, the ongoing diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria has reached alarming levels with over 1,319 deaths due to critical gaps in vaccination and diagnostic capabilities. The NCDC’s report highlights the need for comprehensive vaccination campaigns, especially targeting children, to prevent further fatalities. The commitment from the Nigerian government to improve laboratory capacities and promote awareness is essential, yet experts stress the urgency of immediate action to curb the outbreak effectively.

Original Source: sciencenigeria.com