In a swift response to the growing concerns over a diphtheria outbreak, the Lagos State Government has kicked off an emergency vaccination campaign at King’s College Annexe, Victoria Island. The move aims to protect students and staff from the highly contagious disease and prevent further spread within the school community.
On Tuesday, top government officials, alongside representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), visited the school to assess the situation firsthand and oversee the vaccination drive. Leading the delegation was the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, among other key officials.
During their visit, health officials conducted a thorough inspection of the school’s facilities, including the kitchen, dining hall, dormitories, classrooms, sickbay, sanitary areas, and waste disposal units. Their goal was to identify any risk factors that could contribute to the spread of diphtheria and reinforce preventive measures.
Speaking to students and staff, Prof. Abayomi stressed the importance of maintaining personal and environmental hygiene. He urged them to practice proper handwashing and promptly report any symptoms of diphtheria, such as sore throat, difficulty breathing, and fever.
Reassuring parents, Abayomi emphasized that the government is actively managing the situation and discouraged them from withdrawing their children from school. He explained that isolating students unnecessarily could complicate containment efforts. Instead, he encouraged full cooperation with health officials to ensure all students receive the necessary vaccinations.
The vaccination campaign is prioritizing students with parental consent, as well as school staff, to create a protective barrier against the disease. Health experts have also ramped up awareness efforts, educating the school community about diphtheria symptoms, risks, and preventive measures.
On concerns about vaccine side effects, Prof. Abayomi reassured parents and students that while mild reactions may occur, they are rare and manageable. Medical personnel are stationed at the school’s healthcare facility to provide immediate care if needed.
The school’s Principal, Mr. Zachariah Magaji, joined by the PTA Chairman and alumni representatives, participated in the facility inspection and vaccination exercise, showing strong support for the initiative.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with federal and state health agencies to monitor the situation and deploy additional resources where necessary. Authorities have also urged residents to take advantage of the state’s free immunization programs and adhere to public health advisories to prevent future outbreaks.
This proactive intervention is part of a broader public health strategy aimed at curbing the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases in schools and communities across Lagos State. With health teams working tirelessly, the government remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the well-being of students and residents alike.
