The Lagos State Government says there is currently no widespread outbreak of diphtheria in the state, despite recording 53 suspected cases and six laboratory-confirmed cases in 2026.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said Lagos is maintaining heightened surveillance and preparedness because of the continuous movement of people between the state and other parts of the country where diphtheria outbreaks have been reported.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms such as severe sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, neck swelling, or a whitish or greyish membrane in the throat.
Abayomi said all six confirmed cases were managed appropriately, while their contacts were traced and monitored. He stressed that immunisation remains the most effective protection against diphtheria, urging parents to ensure children complete their routine vaccination schedule.
The state government also advised residents to practise good respiratory hygiene, including regular handwashing, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with others when experiencing respiratory symptoms.
