In response to the recent diphtheria outbreak at King’s College Annex, Victoria Island, the Lagos State Government has initiated an emergency vaccination campaign to curb the spread of the disease and protect public health. The initiative aims to safeguard students, staff, and the school community while reinforcing preventive measures to contain further infections.
Leading a delegation of top government officials to oversee the intervention, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, emphasized the urgency of the situation. Accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, and the Permanent Secretary of Lagos Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, the commissioner assured that swift measures were being implemented.
“We were very concerned about what’s going on at King’s College Annexe – an outbreak of diphtheria fever that has been ongoing for about ten days. Unfortunately, the first case led to a tragic loss. However, since identifying the outbreak, we have screened affected students, placed them on antibiotics and anti-serum, and I am pleased to report that all those receiving treatment are doing well,” he stated.
During the visit, the delegation, alongside school management, PTA executives, and alumni representatives, inspected critical facilities, including dormitories, classrooms, the kitchen, dining hall, sanitary areas, and waste disposal units. The inspection was part of efforts to identify risk factors and enforce improved sanitary conditions to limit bacterial transmission.
“This disease thrives in crowded environments with poor ventilation. We have spoken with the school authorities to ensure proper spacing between students, improve airflow in classrooms and dormitories, and enhance access to clean water. These are fundamental to halting transmission,” Prof. Abayomi explained.
He further disclosed that the emergency vaccination campaign targets all students with parental consent, as well as staff members.
“Normally, every child is vaccinated against diphtheria as part of routine immunization, but over time, immunity can weaken. That’s why we are here today to administer booster shots. The vaccine will strengthen their immune response, preventing further spread,” he added.
Medical teams from the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board have been deployed to ensure all eligible students receive the vaccine. Plans are also in place to extend the vaccination to the main campus in Igbosere, given the movement of students and staff between both locations.
Prof. Abayomi urged parents not to withdraw their children from school, warning that premature exits could undermine containment efforts.
“We understand parents’ concerns, but removing students could lead to further spread. A child may appear well but still be incubating the bacteria. If they leave, they risk infecting family members or the wider community. Right now, the school is almost functioning as an isolation center with professional care on-site. It’s safer for them to remain here,” he assured.
The Lagos State Government continues to monitor the situation closely, reinforcing public health protocols to ensure the safety of students and staff.