The Lagos State Government has confirmed 14 cases of diphtheria among pupils at King’s College Annex, Victoria Island, Lagos, with one reported death.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed the cases during a visit to the school, where he was
accompanied by top government officials. The delegation inspected key facilities, including the kitchen, dining hall,
dormitories, classrooms, sickbay, sanitary areas, and waste disposal units. This was done to identify risk factors and strengthen preventive measures against the disease’s spread.
Abayomi stated that the outbreak had been ongoing for over 10 days before it was confirmed. He assured parents
that the affected pupils were receiving medical care, with 12 administered antibiotics and diphtheria antiserum.
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system and spreads through coughing, sneezing, or
direct contact with an infected person. The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes it as a highly contagious
disease that can cause severe complications, including breathing difficulties, heart failure, and death.
In response to the outbreak, the state government has started a mass vaccination campaign targeting pupils and
staff members at the school. However, only pupils with parental consent will receive the booster dose.
Yoy may also like: Osun State Governor Unveils Ambitious N159 Billion Infrastructure Plan
Abayomi explained that the vaccination campaign aims to strengthen immunity, as most children are vaccinated
against diphtheria in infancy, but immunity wanes over time. He addressed concerns about potential vaccine side
effects, assuring students and parents that while mild to moderate reactions may occur, they are uncommon and
easily managed.
The Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, confirmed that
four pupils were admitted to the hospital for treatment. He stated that they were given antibiotics and antitoxin
supplied by the Lagos State Government and are responding well to treatment.
The state has advised parents against withdrawing their children from the school, warning that seemingly healthy
students may be incubating the bacteria and can spread the infection to their families and communities.
