Although diphtheria is vaccine-preventable, mortality still affect children, teenagers and adults. The current multistate outbreak in Nigeria demonstrates that gaps still exist in routine immunization programs, resulting in zero or suboptimal vaccination. Recently, there have been diphtheria outbreaks in Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe, with varying fatalities among affected populations. Nonetheless, the current outbreak in Nigeria could have been averted if the gaps in immunization coverage had been addressed early enough. To draw specific conclusions for preventing recurrence, this report presents an epidemiological review of diphtheria, focusing on the current outbreak in Nigeria, the potential triggers and ways to bridge the gaps that exist to avert future occurrence.
Key words: Disease Outbreaks, Diphtheria, Vaccination Coverage, Nigeria
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