NCDC,UNICEF Strengthens Response to Diphtheria Outbreak in Niger State
Following reports of suspected diphtheria cases in Niger State, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced that it is collaborating with the State Government to contain the outbreak and protect public health.
During a two-day training on Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and Case Management during Disease Outbreaks, organized by UNICEF with funding from the U.S. Government, NCDC representatives, including Dr. Ali Wada Aliyu, highlighted efforts to equip local health officials with facility-specific preparedness and response plans aligned with national guidelines.
Dr. Aliyu stated that the NCDC is committed to supporting Niger State by providing medical supplies, treatment commodities, and technical expertise to boost disease outbreak response capabilities.
The IPC focal persons and clinicians involved have been selected from all 25 local government areas of the state.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening infection prevention and control measures in healthcare facilities to reduce disease transmission and protect both health workers and patients.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health at the Niger State Ministry of Health, confirmed the diphtheria outbreak, noting that suspected cases in the Fadikpe area of Minna have resulted in one child’s death.
He reported that one child has recovered, while two others have been evacuated for further medical care. Preliminary investigations suggest the illness is likely diphtheria, which was initially mistaken for an unknown disease.
A response team visited the affected community, interacted with residents, examined patients, and collected samples for laboratory testing. Surveillance continues, revealing that some affected children are either partially immunized or have not received the diphtheria vaccine.
Dr. Idris reiterated that diphtheria is vaccine-preventable and urged parents and caregivers to ensure children complete routine immunizations. He assured the public that the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and called for calm as laboratory results are awaited.
UNICEF, reaffirming its support, stressed that complete immunization remains the most effective measure against vaccine-preventable diseases and encouraged parents to utilize available vaccination services across the state.
