The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria, culminating in an outbreak surpassing previous records, has spotlighted the critical imperative for robust immunization policies amidst a milieu of vaccine hesitancy. This commentary delineates the multifaceted dimensions of the current diphtheria outbreak, which started in May 2022, juxtaposed against historical outbreaks, with a focal examination of the pervasive vaccine hesitancy and its underpinning sociocultural and systemic determinants. The discourse extends to a meticulous evaluation of Nigeria's public health response, underlined by the synergy with international organizations, reflecting a global collaborative ethos in combating the diphtheria menace. A critical appraisal of the prevailing immunization policies unveils a necessity for strategic amendments to invigorate vaccination uptake, essential for curbing the diphtheria outbreak and enhancing public health resilience. The reflections herein advocate for a comprehensive, culturally resonant, and sustainable public health paradigm, encompassing a synergistic approach of policy fortification, community engagement, and international collaboration to navigate the challenges posed by vaccine-preventable diseases epitomized by the ongoing diphtheria outbreak. Through a synthesis of historical lessons, contemporary challenges, and global solidarity, this piece contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing immunization coverage and infectious disease control in Nigeria.
Keywords: Nigeria; diphtheria; outbreaks; vaccination; vaccine hesitancy.
Fighting diphtheria in Nigeria: the challenge of getting everyone vaccinated Recently, Nigeria has faced its worst diphtheria outbreak in years, showing how important it is to get people vaccinated. This article looks closely at the current outbreak, compares it to past ones, and explores why some people are hesitant to get vaccinated. We discuss the reasons behind this hesitation, including cultural and social factors. We also review how Nigeria is responding to the outbreak with help from international groups. We point out that Nigeria’s vaccination policies need to be updated to encourage more people to get vaccinated, which is crucial to stop the outbreak and strengthen overall health defenses. The article calls for a well-rounded and lasting approach to public health that includes better policies, working closely with communities, and international cooperation.
© The Author(s), 2024.