At least four people have reportedly died from diphtheria in Edo State as of May 2025.
According to reports, two deaths occurred between January and August 2024, with two additional fatalities recorded between that period and May 2025.
Dr. Stephenson Ojiefo, Director of Public Health at the Edo State Ministry of Health, had earlier informed journalists in Benin City on September 2, 2024, that the state recorded two diphtheria-related deaths in the first eight months of 2024.
Ojiefo had said that out of the recorded 20 suspected cases in the period under review, six were confirmed positive and two deaths recorded.
Meanwhile in his press briefing on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole disclosed that two persons also lost their lives to the disease in the state.
Oshiomhole who disclosed this during an emergency response meeting said the patients died at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH.
He said the deceased were among the five confirmed cases by the teaching hospital.
The emergency meeting was attended by representatives from WHO, UNICEF, local health bodies, and key partners tackling the unfolding public health threat.
The Commissioner described the outbreak as “a serious cause for concern,” warning of the infection’s potential severity if not treated quickly.
“Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection affecting the nose and throat. It could cause severe complications or death.
“The increase in cases, combined with rising threats like drug resistance and viral infections, demands urgent, coordinated efforts,” he said.
Oshiomhole listed key strategies to curtail the spread of the disease to include deployment of rapid response team, improving coordination, and boosting surveillance and contact tracing.
He also listed other priorities as raising public awareness, engaging communities, and ensuring vaccine availability and access.
While assuring the public of the state government’s commitment to containing the outbreak, he commended the authorities of UBTH for their swift response and acknowledged ongoing support from health partners.
He, however, advised citizens to report symptoms early, such as sore throat, fever, or breathing difficulty and to avoid close contact with sick individuals.