LAGOS – Lagos State health officials are working to control a diphtheria outbreak. Ten cases were confirmed between January and March 2025.
Prof. Akin Abayomi is the Commissioner for Health. He stated that laboratories tested 76 samples. Ten samples tested positive for diphtheria. Sixty-three samples tested negative. Prof. Abayomi said, “all confirmed cases remain under treatment to prevent further transmission.”
The Lagos diphtheria outbreak affects several Local Government Areas. Eti-Osa has the most suspected cases.
Government Response Measures
The Lagos state government increased contact tracing efforts. Officials identified 118 people connected to infected patients. Thirty-six individuals received preventative medicine (prophylaxis).
More than 36,000 people received vaccinations. This includes health workers and people at high risk. The government increased public health messages through community work and media.
Prof. Abayomi advised residents to practice good hygiene. He urged frequent hand washing and avoiding crowded places. He also stressed reporting symptoms early.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu acted quickly. Prof. Abayomi assured residents that monitoring and response continue.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates. Cooperation from the public is crucial in containing this outbreak,” he said.
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection. It spreads easily. Lagos has faced past outbreaks. Diphtheria mainly affects the breathing system. It can cause serious throat infections, difficulty breathing, heart damage, and nerve damage.
