JUST-IN: Diphtheria Outbreak Hits King’s College, Parents Blame Poor Hygiene

Lagos Government Intervenes

 

 

 

A diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Lagos (KCL), has caused alarm among parents, who are blaming poor hygiene and inadequate sanitation for the spread of the deadly bacterial infection.

The outbreak, which has led to multiple hospitalizations and one confirmed death among students, has prompted the Lagos State Government to activate its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to address the crisis.

Parents have long expressed concerns about the deteriorating conditions of the school’s facilities, citing issues like unsanitary toilets, poor waste management, and unhygienic food preparation. Many believe these conditions have created a breeding ground for infections, making students more susceptible to diphtheria and other illnesses.

One concerned parent, who spoke anonymously, questioned why the school had initially downplayed the situation despite clear signs of a potential outbreak.

“If hygiene wasn’t an issue, why are students suddenly wearing face masks? Why were some rushed to LUTH for treatment? This could have been prevented if the school took health and sanitation seriously,” the parent told LEADERSHIP.

Reports suggest that some students showed symptoms of diphtheria weeks before the official confirmation, with some parents claiming their children were diagnosed in external hospitals. However, when they raised concerns within the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), their worries were reportedly dismissed.

In response to the outbreak, King’s College management issued consent forms requesting parents’ approval for their children to receive diphtheria vaccinations. The immunization campaign, conducted in collaboration with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, is aimed at boosting immunity among students and preventing further spread.

The Lagos State Government acted quickly by activating its Emergency Response Committee. Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed that the first case was a 12-year-old student who visited the school clinic on February 22 with a sore throat and fever.

“He was referred to LUTH, where he received antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin serum. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to severe myocarditis—a known complication of diphtheria toxin—on March 6. At the time of his death, 34 close contacts were already under medical observation. Fourteen students showed symptoms and were transferred to LUTH for screening. Twelve were confirmed to have early-stage diphtheria and placed on immediate treatment,” Abayomi explained.

The state government has launched a mass vaccination campaign for students at both the Victoria Island Annexe and the Main School in Igbosere. Immunization efforts have also been extended to teachers and healthcare providers. A health inspection at King’s College revealed gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, which authorities are now addressing.

“To prevent further spread, the government is distributing diphtheria awareness materials across schools and hospitals in Lagos. A public health advisory is also being prepared to educate residents on symptoms, prevention, and early treatment,” Abayomi said.

“With nearly 500,000 doses of diphtheria vaccines available, health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), are working together to contain the outbreak and prevent future occurrences.”

However, parents insist that the root cause of the outbreak must be addressed. Many are calling for urgent government intervention to improve water supply, sanitation, waste management, and healthcare facilities within the school.

One frustrated mother, whose son was hospitalized for over a week, lamented the poor conditions students face. “This is not just about diphtheria. The entire school environment is unhealthy. If nothing changes, we will keep seeing outbreaks of diseases that could have been prevented with basic hygiene,” she said.

As the State Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor the evolving situation, Commissioner Abayomi has urged Lagosians to prioritize hygiene, avoid crowded areas, and seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit symptoms of diphtheria. He reassured the public that the outbreak is under control, and proactive measures will continue to protect students and prevent future health crises.