The Lagos State Government has dismissed reports of a widespread diphtheria outbreak in the state, assuring residents that there is currently no epidemic while strengthening surveillance and preparedness measures.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, gave the assurance on Wednesday at a press briefing on the state’s diphtheria preparedness and response held at the Conference Room of the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic, Alausa-Ikeja.
Abayomi said Lagos remained particularly vigilant because of its large and highly connected population, as well as the continuous movement of people between the state and other parts of the country where active diphtheria outbreaks have been reported.
He urged residents not to panic but to remain alert to symptoms of the disease, including severe sore throat, fever, weakness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, neck swelling, and the appearance of a white or greyish membrane at the back of the throat.
The Commissioner explained that diphtheria is a bacterial respiratory infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
The bacteria can produce a toxin capable of damaging vital organs, particularly the heart, while swelling and the formation of a thick membrane in the throat can lead to breathing difficulties.
He advised residents who develop suspected symptoms, particularly those who have recently travelled to affected states or had contact with confirmed cases, to seek medical attention promptly and avoid self-medication.
According to the Commissioner, the state is strengthening active disease surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing and follow-up of confirmed cases, while ensuring that designated health facilities are equipped to manage suspected infections and possible complications.
Abayomi disclosed that Lagos recorded 53 suspected diphtheria cases in 2026, with six cases confirmed through laboratory testing.
He said all six confirmed cases were appropriately managed, while their contacts were traced and placed under observation throughout the incubation period.
The Commissioner identified immunisation as the most effective way to prevent diphtheria and urged parents and guardians to ensure that their children receive the complete three-dose pentavalent vaccination schedule at six, 10 and 14 weeks of age.
He disclosed that the state currently has approximately 64 per cent full vaccination coverage, noting that some children remain partially vaccinated or have not received any doses.
He therefore urged parents to check their children’s immunisation records and ensure that any outstanding doses are completed.
Abayomi listed the four designated facilities for the management of suspected diphtheria cases in Lagos as Mainland Hospital, formerly Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba; Massey Street Children’s Hospital, Lagos Island; Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
With schools expected to reopen soon, the Commissioner said the Ministry was working with the education sector to strengthen awareness and vaccination among schoolchildren.
He added that suspected cases identified in schools would trigger appropriate contact tracing and infection-control measures to prevent further transmission.
The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide, also urged parents to ensure that their children are fully vaccinated.
Lajide stressed the importance of accurate health communication, noting that the media has a critical role to play in providing residents with credible information and dispelling misinformation about diphtheria.
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