Lagos Launches Emergency Diphtheria Vaccination at King’s College

Following a diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Victoria Island Annexe, the Lagos State Government has launched an emergency vaccination drive to prevent further spread.

Health authorities have activated rapid response measures to contain the disease and protect students.

In a statement, Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed the formation of an Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) to oversee outbreak control.

Initial Case and Response

Abayomi reported that the first case involved a 12-year-old student who developed a sore throat and fever on February 22. He was referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where he was diagnosed with diphtheria and treated with antibiotics and a full dose of diphtheria antitoxin serum.

“Despite prompt medical intervention, the student succumbed to severe myocarditis, a known complication of diphtheria, on March 6,” Abayomi stated.

Following his death, 34 individuals who had close contact with the student were monitored, with 14 developing symptoms consistent with diphtheria.

“Out of these, 14 showed symptoms, and they were transferred to the Children’s Emergency Unit at LUTH for medical evaluation,” he added.

Of the 14 students examined, 12 were diagnosed with early-stage diphtheria and were admitted for treatment. The Commissioner reassured the public that all affected students are responding well, and no new cases have been detected.

Preventive Measures and Vaccination Campaign

Health officials conducted a preliminary inspection of King’s College Annexe, identifying the need for stricter infection control measures.

In collaboration with federal health agencies, the Lagos State Government has commenced a targeted vaccination initiative for all students at the Victoria Island Annexe and the Igbosere Main School campus.

The government also confirmed that the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) have been notified and are supporting containment efforts.

Information materials on diphtheria symptoms, prevention, and treatment are being distributed across healthcare facilities. A public health awareness campaign is also being launched to educate residents on symptoms such as fever, sore throat, breathing difficulties, and swollen glands.

Ensuring Public Safety

Abayomi urged Lagos residents to practice good hygiene, avoid overcrowded spaces, and seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit diphtheria-like symptoms.

“Early detection and treatment can save lives. We must all work together to curb this outbreak and protect our communities,” he emphasized.

He assured that the outbreak is under control and that continued intervention measures will prevent further spread.

Lagos State currently has about 500,000 diphtheria vaccine doses, which will be prioritized for high-risk areas. The State Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) will hold daily meetings to assess the situation, with the Ministry of Basic and Tertiary Education involved to strengthen coordination efforts.