Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the health-check domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/mentorw2/radionigeriayola.com.ng/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6121
UNICEF Nigeria decries 122 lives lost, amplifies efforts to counter growing outbreak of diphtheria. – FOMBINA FM YOLA
May 24, 2025
Vunoklang, Hayin Gada, Off Mubi Road, jimeta - Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Home All UNICEF Nigeria decries 122 lives lost, amplifies efforts to counter growing outbreak of diphtheria.

UNICEF Nigeria says it is amplifying efforts to counter a growing outbreak of diphtheria that has affected children in 27 states.

In response to the outbreak, UNICEF revealed that it is closely collaborating with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, affected States and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, in providing technical support to plan and operationalize the response.

In a statement issued by UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms Cristian Munduate, on Friday and made available to Newsmen disclosed that most confirmed cases, approximately 71.5%, occurred among children aged 2 – 14 years.

It further revealed that as of July 2023, 3,850 suspected cases were reported with 1,387 confirmed as diphtheria.

It added that the disease has tragically claimed 122 lives, with a case fatality rate of 8.7%.

It states that the outbreak has affected mainly Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Lagos, FCT, Sokoto, and Zamfara, which account for 98.0% of the suspected cases.

Ms Munduate emphasized the pressing need to reach children who had missed out on their vaccines due to the COVID-19 lockdown.

In light of these sobering statistics, UNICEF Nigeria urges all parents and guardians to ensure their children receive routine immunizations to protect them from preventable diseases like diphtheria.

The agency stressed the need to intensify continues efforts to address the ongoing outbreak and work alongside the government to achieve a healthier, safer future for every Nigerian child.