…records 6 confirmed cases
The Lagos State Government has ruled out a widespread diphtheria outbreak but is strengthening surveillance and preventive measures following cases elsewhere in Nigeria.
Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi said Lagos recorded 53 suspected cases in 2026, six of which were laboratory-confirmed. All confirmed patients were treated, and their contacts monitored.
He urged residents to seek medical care for symptoms including severe sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, neck swelling, or a throat membrane.
Abayomi said the state was intensifying surveillance, testing and contact tracing, while urging parents to complete their children’s three-dose pentavalent vaccination schedule.
Lagos has about 64 per cent full vaccination coverage, with free vaccines available at more than 1,000 facilities.
Suspected cases will be managed at Mainland Hospital, Massey Street Children’s Hospital, LUTH and LASUTH. The health ministry is also working with schools to strengthen vaccination, awareness and infection control.
