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Rising diphtheria outbreaks in Nigeria and Senegal

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-09 17:45 UTC → 2026-09-09 22:48 UTC · added removed

Diphtheria outbreak Rising diphtheria outbreaks in Plateau State, Nigeria and Senegal

In Plateau State, Nigeria, a the diphtheria outbreak has resulted in 23 intensified, with reported deaths rising to 25 and 143 suspected cases over a two-week period. Health Commissioner Nicholas Baamlong confirmed that the state government reaching 300. This escalation has intensified containment efforts, including maintained the quarantine and isolation of patients at Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Specialist Hospital. Health officials are managing several critical challenges, including a shortage temporary closure of specialized containers for transporting laboratory samples and difficulties obtaining antitoxin. Authorities noted that many patients arrive at medical facilities too late for effective treatment. To curb transmission, the government has launched community awareness campaigns involving traditional rulers and local stakeholders to educate the public on how schools in the disease spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. Recent data indicates region. While the outbreak was previously concentrated in eight states, Lagos State has now confirmed six cases and is part of implementing enhanced surveillance and contact tracing to prevent further spread. The situation reflects a broader escalation regional health crisis across West Africa. In Nigeria, between August 24 and August 30, 2026, authorities recorded 69 suspected cases, 48 confirmed cases, and four deaths. The Senegal, the outbreak is concentrated in eight states, also escalating, with Kano, Kaduna, 57 confirmed cases and Plateau eight deaths reported as of September 9, 2026. The Kédougou region has been most heavily impacted, accounting for 98% 27 of confirmed Senegal’s total cases. In Plateau State, the situation led response, Senegalese health authorities have urged parents to the temporary closure of primary and secondary schools. Approximately 68% of those infected were unvaccinated. The proximity of ensure children are up to date with vaccinations. To address these cases regional threats, Senegal has raised concerns for Niger, particularly launched a three-year, 13.89 billion FCFA ($24.6 million) project funded by the Pandemic Fund. Utilizing a ‘One Health’ approach, the initiative aims to strengthen national capacities in border regions where trade epidemiological surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and population movements could facilitate transmission. human resource development to better prepare for future health emergencies.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-09 22:48 UTC Rising diphtheria outbreaks in Nigeria and Senegal
  2. 2026-09-09 17:45 UTC Diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State, Nigeria
  3. 2026-09-02 10:52 UTC Diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State, Nigeria

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