Arresting the diphtheria scourge

Nigeria's diphtheria outbreak has resulted in over 10,000 confirmed cases in 2026, with Kano, Borno, and Bauchi being the worst affected states. Since the outbreak began in 2022, the country has recorded 65,759 suspected cases and 2,229 deaths. Diphtheria, caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, is particularly dangerous for unvaccinated children. The federal government and partners are conducting vaccination and awareness campaigns, but restoring routine immunization programs is crucial.