Two dead, 14 hospitalized as diphtheria hits King’s College Lagos

The Lagos State government has activated emergency response protocols following a deadly diphtheria outbreak at King’s College Victoria Island Annexe, resulting in two students’ death and 14 others hospitalized.

NAIJAONPOINT reports that the outbreak was first identified on February 22, when a 12-year-old student exhibited symptoms of diphtheria, including a sore throat and fever, and was quickly referred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

Despite aggressive treatment, including the administration of diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics, the student’s condition worsened, leading to myocarditis, a severe complication of diphtheria that affects the heart. Sadly, the student died on March 6, after a two-week battle with the disease.

In response to the situation, Lagos State Commissioner for health, Professor Akin Abayomi said the Lagos Emergency Operations Committee launched an immediate investigation, tracing 34 individuals who had close contact with the student.

According to him “Alarmingly, 14 of these contacts began showing symptoms consistent with diphtheria. These individuals were promptly admitted to LUTH’s Children’s Emergency Unit, where medical staff worked swiftly to assess their condition.

“Of the 14, 12 were confirmed to have early-stage diphtheria and received intensive treatment, including antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin therapy.

“Upon further inspection of the school’s boarding facilities, health authorities identified critical gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols.”

While the outbreak has raised significant concerns, Prof. Abayomi noted that the situation is under control.

“Early detection and prompt treatment are key to saving lives.

“We are taking all necessary measures to protect our communities and prevent further spread.

“Every student at both the Victoria Island Annexe and the main campus in Igbosere will receive booster shots to strengthen immunity. Additionally, healthcare workers treating those affected by the outbreak will also be vaccinated, with plans for potential statewide expansion of the campaign” he said.

Diphtheria, a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, can lead to severe complications such as organ failure and, if untreated, can be fatal.

However, health officials emphasize that the disease is preventable through vaccination and early medical intervention.