Médecins Sans Frontières, also known as Doctors Without Borders, has raised concerns over the escalating diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria, where more than 1,260 people have died since the disease outbreak started in late 2022. The organisation reported that suspected infections have surpassed 41,000, with over 24,000 confirmed cases. According to MSF Field Communication Officer, Abdulkareem Yakubu, the situation is increasingly dire due to dwindling supplies of life-saving medication and inadequate vaccination.
Between January and August 9, 2026, Nigeria recorded 12,977 suspected infections, 10,476 confirmed cases, and 406 deaths, according to MSF. The outbreak remains a major concern in northern Nigeria, particularly in Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Plateau, Sokoto, and Zamfara states. MSF Medical Coordinator in Nigeria, Dr David Kizito, warned that the international shortage of diphtheria antitoxin is threatening the survival of infected patients.
The diphtheria antitoxin works by neutralising the toxin released by the bacteria responsible for diphtheria and offers the greatest benefit when administered within 48 hours of the first symptoms. However, MSF's remaining stocks of the antitoxin are critically low, and the organisation has had to carefully allocate existing supplies, potentially affecting patients who urgently need treatment.
MSF has appealed to the Federal Government, state governments, donors, and international partners to take immediate steps to obtain antitoxin, vaccines, and other essential medicines. The organisation also stressed the need to speed up the clearance of medical supplies at Nigerian ports and ensure they reach health facilities and vulnerable communities without unnecessary delays.
Nationwide, MSF has provided treatment to more than 9,000 diphtheria patients through health facilities and community-based interventions since the start of its response this year. The organisation continues to work to address the outbreak, but the shortage of essential medicines and inadequate vaccination remain significant challenges.
The diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria highlights the need for improved access to life-saving medication and vaccination. MSF's warning underscores the importance of swift action to address the crisis and prevent further spread of the disease. The organisation's efforts to provide treatment and support to affected communities are ongoing.
The situation in Nigeria serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and response to disease outbreaks. Médecins Sans Frontières will likely continue to play a critical role in addressing the diphtheria outbreak, and the organisation's appeal for support and resources is a call to action for governments, donors, and international partners to take immediate action.
Key points
- MSF reports over 1,260 deaths and 41,000 suspected infections in Nigeria's diphtheria outbreak.
- The organisation warns of an international shortage of diphtheria antitoxin, threatening the survival of infected patients.
- MSF appeals for immediate action to obtain essential medicines, including antitoxin and vaccines, to address the outbreak.
