Diphtheria Outbreak in Mbutu, Imo State: Urgent Measures and National Response
A diphtheria outbreak in Mbutu Community, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area (LGA), Imo State, has resulted in the deaths of several children, prompting immediate public health interventions.
Local Response and Health Measures
The Chairman of Aboh Mbaise LGA, Iheukwumere Alaribe, confirmed the fatalities in a statement dated May 26, 2025. In response, the local government has temporarily closed all schools in the affected community to prevent further spread of the disease. An isolation center has been established at the Mbutu Health Centre, where health workers are monitoring and quarantining suspected cases. Parents have been urged to keep their children indoors and to ensure they are vaccinated against diphtheria.(Politics Nigeria)
National Context and Statistics
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reports that as of March 9, 2025, the country has recorded 25,812 confirmed cases of diphtheria out of 42,642 suspected cases across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The majority of confirmed cases (63.9%) have occurred among children aged one to 14 years. The overall case fatality rate stands at 5.1%, with some states experiencing even higher rates. (Nairametrics, nationalcourrier.com)
Public Health Concerns
Experts attribute the high mortality rates to several factors, including late diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and significant gaps in vaccination coverage. Despite the existence of Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), only 19.3% of confirmed cases had received the diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine. Additionally, the country’s testing capacity is limited, with many cases confirmed based solely on clinical symptoms due to shortages in testing materials. (nationalcourrier.com)
Call to Action
Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of vaccination as the primary means of preventing diphtheria. Mass vaccination campaigns are being launched in high-burden areas, and there is a concerted effort to improve disease surveillance and laboratory testing capabilities. The public is urged to cooperate with health officials and to ensure that children receive their routine immunizations to protect against diphtheria and other preventable diseases.(nationalcourrier.com)