Diphtheria Outbreak Claims Children’s Lives in Imo, Triggers School Closures

A diphtheria outbreak has triggered urgent public health measures in Mbutu Community, located within Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, following the tragic death of several children. The Chairman of the Local Government Council, Barrister Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, confirmed the fatalities in an official statement dated May 26, 2025.

Diphtheria, a highly contagious disease caused by the toxin-producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily affects the respiratory tract but can also involve the skin. Transmission occurs through airborne respiratory droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing, or through direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces.

In response to the outbreak, local authorities have implemented immediate containment strategies, including the temporary closure of all schools in the Mbutu area. This decisive action aims to prevent further transmission within educational institutions and the broader community.

Reports from the chairman’s office revealed that the outbreak claimed the lives of multiple children within a matter of days. As a precautionary measure, parents have been instructed to keep their children at home to minimize potential exposure.

Collaborative efforts are currently underway involving the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Department of Disease Prevention and Control of the Imo State Ministry of Health, and medical personnel from the local government area. These agencies are conducting rigorous epidemiological investigations and implementing strategies to curb the spread of the disease.

An isolation unit has been established at the Mbutu Health Centre, serving as a quarantine facility for children suspected of being exposed to the infection. Health professionals have been deployed to monitor affected individuals and safeguard the welfare of the community.

The local government has issued a renewed call for widespread childhood immunisation, urging all parents to ensure that their children receive appropriate vaccines without delay. Immunisation is regarded as an essential tool in preventing the proliferation of infectious diseases such as diphtheria.

Residents have also been advised to remain calm and fully cooperate with health authorities and relevant stakeholders. Ongoing public updates will be provided as further information becomes available regarding the containment and management of the outbreak.