
A Daily Trust editorial laments that Nigeria continues to grapple with a major diphtheria outbreak in 2026, despite the disease being vaccine-preventable. The piece argues that with a functional routine immunisation system and effective public health infrastructure, diphtheria should be largely under control, yet children are once again dying, according to recent reports. The editorial calls for stronger public health action to address the outbreak.
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In Nigeria, poverty and malnutrition are significant factors contributing to preventable childhood killer diseases such as malaria and pneumonia, despite the availability of vaccines. The situation highlights the challenges faced in addressing these health issues effectively, as socioeconomic conditions hinder access to necessary healthcare and nutrition.
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