Re-emergence of diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria: Efforts, Challenges and Recommendations

Abstract

Diphtheria is a contagious and potentially fatal disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium widely recognised for producing a potent exotoxin, and this disease has reemerged in Nigeria. In July 2023, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) published a report confirming an increase in Diphtheria cases in some states, especially in children between 1 and 14 years, the age group primarily affected by the disease. To battle the resurgence of Diphtheria, the NCDC started particular response activities, including training in the affected states, routine immunization, and media partnership. The Federal Ministry of Health also joined hands with the NCDC to plan and enact mass vaccination campaigns, among other key interventions. However, these efforts to curb the resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria have been met with some challenges such as vaccination gaps, poor management and diagnosis of diphtheria cases, and inadequate strategies for timely response. As a form of a way forward for the prevention and management of diphtheria, effective collaboration, strategic increase in diphtheria booster vaccination in traced contacts, and vaccination in high-risk populations, mass education and sustainable practices are essential. There is also a need to ensure adequate access to vulnerable populations, especially the rural areas.