The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that more than 20,000 suspected diphtheria cases have been recorded across Africa since the beginning of the year, with over 1,200 deaths reported.

According to the WHO, between 1 January and 2 November 2025, a total of 20,412 suspected diphtheria cases, including 1,252 deaths, were identified in Algeria, Guinea, Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Chad, and South Africa.

The average case-fatality rate stands at 6.1%, while recent weeks have seen a worsening situation in Mauritania, Mali, and Niger due to rising case numbers and expanding outbreaks. The surge in diphtheria cases across the continent has become “a significant public health concern.”

WHO warned that the public health risk remains high at the regional level, citing the potential for further geographical spread, high death rates, limited outbreak-response capacity, and weak surveillance and laboratory systems.

The organization added that the humanitarian crises in affected countries—such as Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria—increase the likelihood of sustained transmission and hinder response efforts. WHO also noted that disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic led to a “substantial decline in vaccination coverage.”

Globally, the risk remains low because most countries outside Africa maintain strong immunization programs and efficient surveillance systems. WHO recommended maintaining emergency stocks of diphtheria antitoxin, antibiotics, and laboratory supplies at its regional hubs in Dakar and Nairobi. It also advised against imposing travel or trade restrictions on countries affected by the outbreak.

Diphtheria is caused by bacteria that primarily infect the upper respiratory tract and, in rare cases, the skin. The toxin produced by the bacteria can result in severe damage to the heart and nervous system. Although a safe and effective vaccine exists, insufficient vaccination coverage has fueled recurrent outbreaks across the continent. (ILKHA)