Lagos Launches Emergency Diphtheria Vaccination at King’s Colleg

Following a diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Victoria Island Annexe, the Lagos State Government has initiated an emergency vaccination drive to curb the disease and protect students.

Health authorities have implemented rapid response measures, and an Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) has been established to oversee containment efforts, according to Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi.

Index Case and Response

Abayomi reported that the outbreak began with a 12-year-old student who exhibited symptoms of sore throat and fever on February 22. He was referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), 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 this, 34 close contacts 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 admitted for treatment. The Commissioner assured that all affected students are responding well, with no new cases detected.

Vaccination and Prevention Measures

A preliminary inspection of King’s College Annexe highlighted areas requiring stricter infection control measures. In response, the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with federal health agencies, has commenced a vaccination campaign for students at both the Victoria Island Annexe and the Igbosere Main School campus.

The World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) are assisting in coordinating the response.

Health authorities are also distributing information materials on diphtheria symptoms, prevention, and treatment while launching a public awareness campaign to educate Lagos residents about early warning signs such as fever, sore throat, breathing difficulties, and swollen glands.

Public Safety Measures

Abayomi urged residents to maintain good hygiene, avoid crowded places, 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.

The Commissioner assured that the outbreak is under control, with continued intervention efforts to prevent further spread.

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