Nigeria has recorded 41,000 cases of diphtheria, with children being the most affected group. The outbreak has raised concerns due to its rapid spread, particularly among unvaccinated children. Health authorities and international organizations are intensifying efforts to increase vaccination coverage and curb the spread of the disease.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nose and throat, causing breathing difficulties and complications if untreated. The best protection remains timely vaccination, as most of the affected children had not received their routine immunizations.

Health professionals urge parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccines to prevent further infections and fatalities.

What is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the throat and airways, leading to severe breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it produces a toxin that can cause heart, nerve, and kidney damage, and even death. Symptoms include:

• Sore throat and fever
• Thick gray or white coating on the throat and tonsils
• Difficulty breathing and swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes (“bull neck”)

Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and through direct contact with infected wounds or objects. Unvaccinated children and people in crowded areas are at the highest risk.

Lessons for Nurses

This outbreak offers several key lessons for nurses and healthcare professionals:

1. The Power of Vaccination:
   • The majority of affected children were unvaccinated, reinforcing the lifesaving importance of immunization. Nurses must educate parents and caregivers about the Pentavalent vaccine, which protects against diphtheria.
2. Early Recognition Saves Lives:
   • Nurses should be vigilant for early symptoms of diphtheria, as delayed treatment can lead to complications. Recognizing and isolating cases quickly can help prevent further spread.
3. Community Health Education is Key:
   • Many communities lack awareness of routine immunization programs. Nurses should play an active role in community outreach, correcting myths about vaccines and encouraging timely immunization.
4. Infection Control Practices:
   • Proper hand hygiene, use of masks, and disinfection of surfaces can reduce transmission. Nurses should reinforce infection control protocols in hospitals and communities.
5. Preparedness for Future Outbreaks:
   • This outbreak highlights the need for stronger public health surveillance and better outbreak response training for healthcare workers