Diphtheria in Africa

24 Jul 2024

The World Health Organization reports continued transmission of diphtheria in African countries.  As of the most recent report of 30 June 2024, the following countries are reporting cases:

Nigeria: From 8 May 2022 to  8 June 2024, there have been suspected cases, including 884 confirmed deaths.

Niger: from 17 July 2023 to 15 June 2024, there have been 5 367 cases, including 320 deaths in Matameye health district, Zinder region.

Guinea: from 4 July 2023 to 9 April 2024, 4 517 cases, including 105 deaths have been reported from the Kankan, Faranah, Labé, Mamou, Conakry and N'Nzérékoré regions. Kankan is most affected, with 98.4% of suspected cases reported.

Gabon: from 1 January 2024 to 19 March 2024 there have been 28 cases including 3 deaths.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious infection spread mainly through respiratory secretions from coughs and sneezes. It can cause severe difficulties with breathing. The infection can also affect the skin, causing ulcers. 

Advice for travellers

Travelling abroad can increase your risk of diphtheria.  Make sure you have completed the schedule of vaccines for life in the UK.

• This means receiving 5 doses of a vaccine giving protection against diphtheria by the time you are a teenager.

If you have completed the national schedule of vaccines for life in the UK:

• If it has been more than 10 years since your last diphtheria vaccine, you should get a booster dose before travelling to Nigeria.

To reduce your risk of becoming infected whilst travelling, you should also practice good respiratory hygiene and hand hygiene, especially when you are in or have recently been in overcrowded or busy places.

See the fitfortravel Diphtheria page for further information.