Ajao Stephen
Dr. Adékúnlé, Adébáyò Ayòadé of Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology, Ladoke Akíntólá University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, has raised concerns over the rising cases of diphtheria in Nigeria, describing it as a highly contagious and life-threatening bacterial infection.
Speaking on Tiwantiwa, a health-focused radio programme aired this evening on Ajilete FM 92.1 and sponsored by Ogbomoso First Group, Dr. Adékúnlé explained that diphtheria is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. He stated that the disease primarily affects the nose and throat but can also release toxins that damage the heart, nerves, and other organs. According to him, if left untreated, the infection can result in severe complications and even death.
Highlighting the modes of transmission, Dr. Adékúnlé noted that diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects or infected wounds. Contributing factors, he said, include poor hygiene, overcrowding, and low immunization rates, all of which increase the risk of outbreaks.
Addressing the rise in diphtheria cases across the country, the medical expert attributed the situation to multiple challenges such as low vaccination coverage—particularly in rural areas—gaps in public health surveillance, and limited access to healthcare services. He added that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine immunization programmes, further exacerbating the problem.
Dr. Adékúnlé listed symptoms of diphtheria that the public should watch out for, including sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and difficulty breathing. He pointed out that a thick grey or white coating on the throat or tonsils is a hallmark sign of the infection. In more severe cases, he said, diphtheria can lead to breathing difficulties, heart failure, or paralysis.
On prevention, he emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective strategy. He recommended the DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) vaccine for children during early childhood. He also encouraged good hygiene practices, avoiding crowded places during outbreaks, and prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Adékúnlé urged individuals to seek immediate medical attention upon suspecting a diphtheria case. He stressed the importance of early treatment with antitoxins and antibiotics, alongside isolating infected persons and monitoring their close contacts for possible treatment.
Looking beyond the current outbreak, Dr. Adékúnlé called for long-term measures to combat diphtheria in Nigeria. He advocated for the strengthening of routine immunization programmes, ensuring vaccine availability in all communities, increasing public awareness about vaccination, and enhancing disease surveillance. He also emphasized the need for greater investment in primary healthcare and public health infrastructure to prevent future outbreaks.
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