Diphtheria outbreak: We can do better
It is deeply troubling that Nigeria is still grappling with diphtheria on such a scale in 2026. More troubling is the fact that this is a vaccine-preventable disease that should, with a functional routine immunisation system and an effective public health infrastructure, be largely under control. Yet, once again, children are dying. Recent reports from […]
Nigeria is experiencing a concerning diphtheria outbreak in 2026, with children dying despite the disease being preventable through vaccination. Recent reports from Plateau, Katsina, and Kano states reveal the severity of the situation, with Plateau alone recording at least 23 deaths and 143 suspected cases. Katsina has seen suspected cases in 29 of its 34 local government areas, and Nasarawa has confirmed 15 cases, mostly among unvaccinated children.
Kano, which has faced a heavy burden since the outbreak began in 2022, is once again dealing with a resurgence. The federal government has provided about 650,000 doses of vaccine, while states like Kano have requested significantly more. This highlights a troubling lack of preparedness and response to a vaccine-preventable disease.
If authorities know the scale of the problem and the effectiveness of vaccination, why are we repeatedly scrambling for vaccines after children have started falling ill? The issue goes beyond immediate vaccine availability. Nigeria has had ample warning, and Kano's previous request for five million doses in 2023, which was only partially met, demonstrates a pattern of inadequate response.
Neighboring Cameroon has successfully controlled its diphtheria outbreak through proper surveillance, vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment coordination. Nigeria cannot continue to view basic vaccine requirements as unexpected emergencies reliant on donor support. While acknowledging the federal government's deployment of a million doses and activation of an emergency task force, it is unacceptable that children continue to fall ill.
The root causes include a weak primary healthcare system, vaccine hesitancy, and supply gaps. The human cost is immense, with each reported death representing a child, a family, and a future lost. Communities must also take responsibility by using available health services and addressing misinformation. It is time for Nigeria to move beyond emergency responses and address underlying weaknesses, such as reliable vaccine forecasting, robust supply chains, improved surveillance, and equipped primary healthcare centres.
The state must accept greater responsibility for routine immunisation and community health. This outbreak should not be a recurring event. Diphtheria is preventable with existing vaccines, knowledge, and protocols. Consistency, preparedness, and political commitment are needed to protect children.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
