Diphtheria outbreak: Lagos begins vaccination at King’s College

The Lagos State Government has launched a diphtheria vaccination drive at King’s College, Victoria Island Annexe, following an outbreak of the disease. 

The state health authorities have activated emergency measures to contain the spread and protect students. 

In a statement by the state’s ministry of health, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, confirmed that an Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) has been set up to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.

“The Lagos State Government has activated its Emergency Response Committee, following the outbreak of diphtheria in the boarding house of King’s College, Victoria Island Annexe,” the statement read.

Newstrends earlier reported that parents raised alarm over the situation, questioning the school’s response and sanitation standards.

According to Abayomi, the index case was a 12-year-old student who presented with a sore throat and fever at the school clinic on February 22. He was referred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where he was diagnosed with diphtheria and treated with antibiotics and a full dose of diphtheria antitoxin serum.

“Despite the timely intervention, the boy succumbed to progressive and irreversible inflammation of the heart (myocarditis) on the 6th of March. Myocarditis is a severe and recognized complication of the bacterial infection caused by the toxin,” Abayomi said.

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He further disclosed that 34 close contacts of the deceased student were placed under observation, out of which 14 developed symptoms consistent with diphtheria.

“Of these, 14 have developed symptoms consistent with diphtheria. In response, the affected students were transported to the Children’s Emergency Unit at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where they were screened by health professionals,” he added.

Out of the 14 students examined, 12 were diagnosed with early signs of diphtheria and admitted for treatment. The Commissioner assured that all 14 symptomatic students are responding well to treatment, and no new cases have been recorded.

Following a preliminary inspection of King’s College Annexe, health officials identified areas needing improved infection prevention and control measures.

Consequently, the state government, in collaboration with federal health agencies, has commenced a targeted vaccination campaign for all students in both the boarding facility at Victoria Island Annexe and the primary academic campus at Igbosere Main School.

The Lagos State Government also noted that the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) have been notified and are working with the Lagos State Government to coordinate an effective response.

The state is currently distributing information leaflets to healthcare facilities detailing diphtheria symptoms, prevention, and early treatment options.

A public health announcement is being prepared to sensitize Lagosians on the outbreak, urging them to watch for symptoms such as sore throat, fever, difficulty in breathing, and swollen neck glands.

Diphtheria outbreak: Lagos begins vaccination at King’s College

Scientists working to extend human lifespan to 250 years — Expert

A leading medical expert, Dr. Ibrahim Wada, has suggested that advancements in medical technology and genetic engineering could push the human lifespan to 250 years in the next 30 to 40 years.

Wada, the founder of Nisa Medical Group, made this claim while delivering the Second Nimi Dimkpa Briggs Legacy Lecture at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) on Thursday.

His lecture, titled “The Longevity of Man,” explored the rapid pace of scientific breakthroughs that may soon redefine human aging.

He pointed to remarkable progress in genetic science, highlighting the creation of artificial eggs and sperm from human saliva, which could eventually lead to babies being grown in artificial wombs.

“This technology has already produced live rats. It is only a matter of time before humans benefit from similar advancements,” he said.

Wada, an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, noted that innovations in stem cell research, artificial organs, and genetic reprogramming could revolutionize human health and longevity.

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“Recreating stem cells from a person’s genes and reintroducing them into the body can regenerate dead cells and significantly extend lifespan,” he explained. “In another 30 to 40 years, it will be normal for individuals to expect to live for 200 or even 250 years. This will happen because humanity has now entered the age of computer reprogramming.”

Despite the potential of these innovations, Wada expressed concern that such advanced treatments are not yet accessible in Nigeria. He also underscored the importance of lifestyle choices in promoting longevity, emphasizing regular medical check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate rest.

“Rest is essential for brain function. So, when it is time to rest, you must allow the brain to rest – no compromise,” he advised.

During the event, UNIPORT Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, reflected on the legacy of Prof. Nimi Briggs, describing him as a visionary leader and academic powerhouse.

“This is because it is not the breath we take, but the fire we ignite,” Georgewill remarked, raising the question of whether longevity is purely biological or tied to a person’s impact on the world.

Prof. Ngozi Orazulike, Chair of the Nimi Briggs Professorial Chair in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, praised Briggs’ significant contributions to medicine, education, and philanthropy.

Meanwhile, the late professor’s son, Nima Briggs, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition of his father’s legacy.

“It is humbling to see my father’s legacy live on, with events still being organised to honour his memory,” he said.

Scientists working to extend human lifespan to 250 years — Expert

How to practise healthy Ramadan fast — Experts

Ramadan fast is a spiritual obligation for Muslims to abstain from all food and drinks from dawn to sunset for 29/30 days.

Medical experts say fasting has health benefits. They advise people observing the Ramadan fast to adopt some health practices during the period.

A consultant family physician at the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Dr Nuhu Ardo Kumo, said all those observing Ramadan fast should endeavour not to miss their ‘Sahur ‘ which is eaten during pre-dawn period.