30 Oct 2023 | 12:36 PM UTC
Nigeria: Elevated diphtheria activity reported in multiple areas, especially in Kano, through October /update 2
Elevated diphtheria activity reported in Nigeria through October. Kano is most affected. Confirm vaccination.
Nigerian health authorities have reported elevated diphtheria activity in multiple states, with more than 2,052 cases reported Sept. 22-Oct. 12; bringing the total case count to more than 7,950 since June 1. Kano State remains most affected, reporting over 5,644 confirmed cases. Other states reporting high disease activity include Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, and Yobe. More than 60 percent of confirmed cases in this ongoing outbreak were unvaccinated. Nigerian health officials urge the public to remain vigilant and ensure that anyone experiencing symptoms of diphtheria presents early to health facilities for prompt diagnosis and treatment. This represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 30.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against diphtheria or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria vaccination coverage in Nigeria is estimated at 56 percent, much lower than the 83–86 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Diphtheria cases are underreported in Nigeria, with few reports of outbreaks in the past. Authorities reported 2,289 cases nationwide in 2019 and 1,870 cases in 2018.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial disease spread through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. In rare cases, the bacteria can spread through contact with infected skin lesions. Symptoms typically appear 2-5 days after exposure but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Symptoms of diphtheria vary depending on where the bacteria accumulates in the body. If the bacteria accumulate in the nose, throat, or tonsils, symptoms generally include sore throat, fever, chills, and a characteristic white or grayish coating on the back of the nose or throat. If the bacteria accumulate on the skin, symptoms generally include a characteristic non-healing, gray ulcer on the skin, or a scaling rash.
