The Lagos State Government has initiated an emergency vaccination campaign at King’s College Annexe, Victoria Island, following a recent diphtheria outbreak in the school.
According to a statement from the Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, the measure is a proactive effort to curb the disease’s spread and safeguard public health.
Senior government officials and health experts, including representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), have been involved in containment efforts. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, confirmed that critical stakeholders met on Sunday to address the outbreak.
Concerned parents have criticized the school’s management for its handling of the situation, citing poor sanitation and lack of prompt action. Some students have reportedly been hospitalized, with parents alleging secrecy surrounding the outbreak.
To facilitate vaccinations, the school has requested parents to sign consent forms for immunization, in collaboration with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.
Amid growing concerns, parents have also urged improvements to the school’s clinic, calling for a dedicated medical doctor to enhance healthcare services for students.
