Edo Diphtheria Outbreak: Here’s All You Need To Know

The Edo State government, on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, said that it has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the spread of diphtheria and safeguard the health of residents.

The state government on June 9 deployed 70 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, where two people died last week of the disease.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the state government said it is fully aware of the outbreak in certain parts of the state.

According to the statement, hospitals across the state have been placed on high alert and instructed to intensify case detection, prompt isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in accordance with national and international guidelines.

The statement reads, “Government wishes to inform the general public that it is fully aware of the recent outbreak of Diphtheria reported in certain parts of the State.

“In response, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has activated an emergency public health response, deploying all necessary resources and expertise to arrest the situation and safeguard the health of residents.

“Governor Okpebholo, demonstrating decisive leadership, is personally coordinating surveillance and monitoring efforts, working closely with the state Ministry of Health and other critical stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective containment of the disease.
“Key interventions currently underway include the procurement of life-saving vaccines to drive an immediate and statewide vaccination campaign targeting vulnerable populations, especially children.

“The government is also ramping up public awareness campaigns through multiple platforms, radio, television, community outreach, and social media, to educate citizens on the symptoms of diphtheria, preventive measures, and the importance of early treatment.

“Hospitals across the State have been placed on high alert and instructed to intensify case detection, prompt isolation, and proper clinical management of suspected cases in accordance with national and international guidelines.”

The statement also noted that medical personnel were being briefed and equipped to respond appropriately, while the state’s disease surveillance network is being expanded to trace and monitor potential contacts swiftly.

The statement added, “The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, has been at the forefront of the state’s medical response, working tirelessly with the emergency health task force to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide real-time updates to the public.

“Also, school owners and proprietors are actively collaborating with the government to implement early warning systems, enforce hygiene standards, and carry out health screenings where necessary to protect schoolchildren, who are among the most vulnerable.

“In addition, Governor Okpebholo has convened a multi-sectoral emergency meeting with representatives from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, World Health Organisation, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and community development groups to harmonise efforts and strengthen the response framework.

“The government assures the public that there is no cause for panic. The situation is under control, and all necessary protocols are being enforced to prevent further spread. Edo State has a strong track record in managing public health emergencies, and this instance is no exception.”

The governor urged citizens to remain calm but vigilant, advising residents to report any symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, or difficulty in breathing to the nearest healthcare facility.

What Is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the “Corynebacterium diphtheriae” bacterium. It primarily affects the respiratory system, causing a sore throat, fever, and swollen glands in the neck. The bacterium produces a toxin that damages tissues in the body and spreads through the bloodstream, affecting vital organs like the heart and kidneys.

How Does Diphtheria Spread

Diphtheria spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with infected sores or contaminated items, such as towels or eating utensils.
The bacteria can infect the throat or skin, and in some cases, it may spread through close personal contact or shared contaminated objects.

Symptoms of Diphtheria

The symptoms of diphtheria typically appear 2 to 5 days after exposure and may include:

• Sore throat: Often severe, accompanied by difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
• Fever: Mild to moderate.
• Swelling of the neck: Characteristic “bull neck” appearance due to swollen lymph nodes.
• Weakness and fatigue: General feeling of being unwell and weak.
• Thick, grayish membrane in the throat: A thick coating in the throat or nose, which can make breathing and swallowing difficult.
• Hoarseness or loss of voice: Caused by swelling and infection in the throat.
• Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, the membrane can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing difficulties.

Preventive Measures

To prevent the spread of diphtheria, several measures should be followed:

• Good hygiene practices: Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting contaminated objects and surfaces.
• Isolation of infected individuals: Those diagnosed with diphtheria should remain isolated until they are no longer contagious.
• Prompt treatment: Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear. Early treatment with antibiotics (such as penicillin or erythromycin) and diphtheria antitoxin can help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent further spread.

Diphtheria is a preventable but potentially deadly disease that continues to pose a threat in Nigeria due to low immunization rates.