Parents of students at King’s College Lagos (KCL) are raising serious concerns over a suspected diphtheria outbreak that has reportedly led to multiple hospitalizations, sparking fears of a health crisis.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), several students have been taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for treatment, prompting accusations that the school management has been slow to respond.
A concerned parent, who spoke anonymously, questioned the school’s handling of the situation.
“If there are no cases, why are students being required to wear nose masks, and why were some rushed to LUTH?” the parent asked.
Further fueling fears, reports indicate that World Health Organization (WHO) officials visited the school on March 8 to educate students on preventive measures against diphtheria.
Parents Allege Cover-Up, Cite Poor Hygiene
Some parents claim that diphtheria cases surfaced in late 2024 but were not publicly addressed. Many are also blaming poor sanitation, pointing to complaints about filthy toilets and substandard food quality at the school.
One parent recounted how their child suffered a severe sore throat, swollen neck, and high fever before requiring hospitalization.
“It was by God’s grace that my son survived. He was admitted for over a week,” the parent said.
Tragically, another student hospitalized with similar symptoms reportedly did not survive.
“There was another child who was hospitalized at the same time, but sadly, he didn’t pull through,” the parent added.
Concerned parents are now urging the federal government to improve school sanitation, upgrade health facilities, and ensure better medical oversight.
Parents Call for Government Intervention
With growing concerns over health and safety in King’s College Lagos, parents are demanding immediate intervention from the federal government.
A relative of one of the affected students urged greater transparency from the school administration and called for urgent improvements in hygiene and healthcare facilities at KCL and other unity schools.
“My sister is panicking after hearing that a student died from the disease in December. The government must take action to prevent more cases,” she said.
Other parents have emphasized the need for better-equipped school clinics, clean water supply, and improved sanitation facilities to prevent further outbreaks.
School Authorities Reassure Parents
Responding to the growing panic, the King’s College Parents Teachers Association (KCPTA) confirmed that suspected cases were being isolated and treated at LUTH.
KCPTA Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Ngozi Ogbonna, assured parents that booster doses of diphtheria vaccines were being administered in collaboration with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board.
“Some students have been isolated and taken to LUTH for diagnosis, and we are awaiting results. WHO officials have also stepped in to help control the situation,” Ogbonna stated, urging parents to remain calm.
