Diphtheria Outbreak in Niger State Claims Ten Children’s Lives

A fresh outbreak of diphtheria has tragically claimed the lives of at least ten children in Agaie and Bida local government areas of Niger State, Nigeria.


The affected children were admitted to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Bida, where they succumbed to complications from the highly contagious bacterial infection despite medical interventions.


Local residents, gripped by anxiety, have called on the state government for urgent supplies of vaccines and essential drugs, warning that time is of the essence to prevent further spread.

Dr Mohammed Gana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Health Care, confirmed the outbreak and stressed that emergency response measures have been activated in collaboration with health partners.


Efforts include strengthening surveillance, providing medication, and containing the disease. He cited vaccine hesitancy as a key factor in the escalating death toll and conveyed gratitude to partners aiding the state's response.


Health authorities have reiterated that routine immunisation remains the most effective defence against diphtheria. Parents are urged to ensure that their children complete the full course of diphtheria-containing vaccines and report any suspected cases promptly to the nearest health facility.


This heartbreaking situation highlights the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage and robust disease surveillance, especially in vulnerable communities, if such tragedies are to be avoided in the future.

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