Diphtheria Outbreak at King’s College: One Dead, Emergency Vaccination Begins
The Lagos State government has confirmed an outbreak of diphtheria at the King’s College, Victoria Island Annex, resulting in the death of a 12-year-old student and the hospitalisation of 14 others.
Authorities have identified 34 close contacts of the deceased, placing them under observation. Of these, 14 students developed symptoms and were promptly transferred to LUTH, where 12 were confirmed to have early signs of diphtheria. They are currently receiving treatment and recovering under close medical supervision.
In response, the Lagos State government has activated an Emergency Response Committee and launched a mass vaccination campaign for students and staff at the annex to curb further spread.
During an inspection of the school, health officials identified areas requiring urgent improvement in infection prevention and control. The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, alongside top government officials and WHO representatives, assessed key facilities, including the dormitories, classrooms, kitchen, and sanitary areas.
Abayomi emphasised the importance of good hygiene, early symptom detection, and swift medical intervention. He reassured the public that the outbreak was under control, urging parents to allow their children to receive the vaccine.
Meanwhile, concerns among parents have grown, with some opting to keep their children at home. Many are calling for an urgent PTA meeting to assess the school’s conditions and response efforts.
The Lagos State government has nearly 500,000 diphtheria vaccine doses in stock, with plans to expand the vaccination campaign beyond King’s College Annex to high-risk areas. The State Emergency Operations Center will continue monitoring the situation and coordinating further action.
