Diphtheria is not something you hear about every day, but right now, it’s something Lagosians need to pay attention to. The recent diphtheria outbreak in Lagos has raised concerns, and understandably so. It’s a serious bacterial infection that can spread quickly and, in some cases, lead to severe complications or even death. But before you panic, let’s break things down. What is diphtheria? How does it spread? What should you be doing to protect yourself and those around you? And most importantly, if you think you might have it, what should you do?
The good news is that diphtheria is preventable and treatable. By staying informed and taking the right precautions, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the diphtheria outbreak in Lagos and what you can do about it today.
What causes diphtheria?
Diphtheria is caused by a bacterium called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. When this bacteria enters the body, it releases a toxin that attacks healthy tissues, particularly in the respiratory system. This leads to the formation of a thick, gray coating in the throat and nose, making it difficult to breathe and swallow.
The disease spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets—just like the flu or COVID-19. If someone with diphtheria coughs or sneezes near you, you could inhale the bacteria and become infected. It can also spread through direct contact with infected wounds, shared personal items, or contaminated surfaces.
The scariest part? Some people can carry the bacteria without showing symptoms, unknowingly spreading it to others. That’s why prevention is key.
The present situation, as of 14th March, 2025
As of today, 14 confirmed cases of diphtheria have been found at King’s College, Victoria Island Annex. In response, the Lagos State Ministry of Health has stepped in to contain the situation by launching a vaccination campaign at the school. But this outbreak serves as a wake-up call for all of us in Lagos.
While these cases are concentrated in one location for now, diphtheria spreads easily in crowded places—schools, offices, markets, and public transport. If we don’t take the right precautions, we could see more cases popping up in different parts of the city. This is why understanding the symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options is more important than ever.
Symptoms of diphtheria
Diphtheria symptoms usually appear 2–5 days after exposure to the bacteria. The early signs can be mistaken for a regular cold or flu, but they quickly become more severe.
- Sore throat and difficulty swallowing – One of the first signs of diphtheria is a painful throat that makes swallowing uncomfortable.
- Fever and chills – A mild or moderate fever, often accompanied by chills, is common in the early stages.
- Swollen glands in the neck – Diphtheria can cause significant swelling in the neck, sometimes referred to as a “bull neck.”
- Weakness and fatigue – The bacterial infection can leave you feeling extremely tired and weak.
- Thick, grey coating in the throat or nose – Within a few days, diphtheria produces a thick, greyish layer over the tonsils, throat, or nose, which can make breathing and swallowing difficult.
- Breathing problems – As the infection progresses, it can block the airways, making it hard to breathe.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone around you, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.
How can diphtheria be prevented?
The best way to prevent diphtheria is to get vaccinated. The diphtheria vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule for children, but adults who haven’t received a booster in the last 10 years should consider getting one, especially now that there’s an outbreak.
Aside from vaccination, here are other important ways to protect yourself:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places.
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms like a sore throat, fever, or swollen glands.
- Keep your surroundings clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
How is diphtheria treated?
If you or someone you know starts showing symptoms of diphtheria, early treatment is super important. The disease progresses quickly, and delaying treatment can lead to severe complications, including heart and nerve damage.
Treatment typically involves two main steps:
Antibiotics – These help kill the bacteria, preventing it from spreading further in the body.
Antitoxins – These are used to neutralize the toxin that the bacteria produce, reducing the risk of serious complications.
In severe cases, patients may need hospitalization to manage breathing difficulties and other complications. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms—especially difficulty breathing, a sore throat, and fever—please seek medical help immediately.
What can I do about it today?
If you’re reading this, you’re already taking an important step—getting informed. But here’s what you can do right now to protect yourself and those around you:
Stay updated – Follow reputable sources like the Lagos State Ministry of Health for real-time updates and advisories.
Practice good hygiene – It’s a simple but effective way to reduce your risk.
Seek medical attention early – If you notice any symptoms, don’t wait. Get checked as soon as possible.
Check your vaccination status – If you’re unsure when you last had a diphtheria vaccine, now’s the time to find out.
Encourage others to get vaccinated – Awareness is key. Share this information with friends, family, and colleagues.
Diphtheria is serious, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Clafiya’s Care Clinic, we are committed to keeping you safe and healthy. Whether you need to check your vaccination status, get medical advice, or simply talk to a healthcare professional, we’re here for you.
Take the first step to safety by creating an account today at hsa.clafiya.com.
If you need immediate help, please message us on WhatsApp at 09134275854.
Your health matters. Stay informed, stay protected, and let’s keep Lagos safe together.
