Lagos Govt activated Emergency Response Team as Diphtheria Outbreak Hits Prestigious King’s College

The Lagos State Government has activated its Emergency Response Committee in response to a confirmed diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Victoria Island Annex. The outbreak has tragically resulted in the death of a 12-year-old student, prompting urgent health interventions.

Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi reassured the public that the situation is under control and urged calm. “There is no cause for panic. We have swiftly activated containment measures to protect the public,” he stated on March 11.

The first case was reported on February 22 when the student developed a sore throat and fever. He was admitted to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) but succumbed to myocarditis, a severe complication of diphtheria, on March 6. Following his death, 34 individuals who had close contact with him were placed under medical observation, with 14 exhibiting symptoms consistent with diphtheria. Twelve of these students have been confirmed to have early signs of the infection and are receiving treatment.

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To combat the outbreak, the Lagos State Government will implement enhanced infection prevention and control measures at King’s College. A targeted vaccination campaign will also be launched for all students at both the Victoria Island Annex and the main school in Igbosere, utilizing approximately 500,000 doses of diphtheria vaccine available in stock.

Public awareness campaigns will distribute materials detailing symptoms and prevention strategies for diphtheria across healthcare facilities in Lagos. Residents are advised to maintain good hygiene practices, avoid crowded places, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or difficulty breathing.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can lead to severe complications if untreated. The Lagos State Emergency Operations Centre will hold daily meetings to monitor developments and coordinate responses effectively.