By Chioma Obinna

Parents of students at King’s College, Lagos (KCL), have raised serious concerns over a suspected diphtheria outbreak in the school, with reports of students being hospitalised.

Findings by Vanguard revealed that officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) have visited the school for assessment and issued safety guidelines.

Some parents and guardians fear the situation may be more severe than reported and are calling on the school authorities to provide a clear statement. They have also been issued compulsory immunisation forms by the school, to be filled and returned by Wednesday. A consent form obtained by Vanguard confirmed that the school, in collaboration with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, is planning a diphtheria vaccination drive.

Concerned observers and parents have linked the suspected outbreak to poor sanitary conditions and a perceived lack of transparency from the school’s management. Reports indicate that students have been mandated to wear face masks, and several have been treated at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for suspected diphtheria symptoms.

“Why the secrecy?” questioned one parent. “We’ve repeatedly raised concerns about poor sanitation, inadequate food, and the state of the school clinic. WHO officials were on campus yesterday to educate students about diphtheria prevention, which suggests the situation is serious.”

Further intensifying concerns, reports indicate that some students were hospitalised in December, with one student tragically passing away.

Parents are now demanding that a full-time medical doctor be stationed at the school’s clinic.

“My son was hospitalised for over a week—it was a terrifying experience. We need intensified preventive measures and constant supervision of students’ hygiene,” one parent stated.

They are also calling on the Federal Government to improve water and sanitation (WASH) infrastructure in the school and enhance overall educational standards at KCL and other unity schools. Additionally, they have urged the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to prioritize student welfare over concealing problems.





https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/parents-raise-concerns-over-suspected-diphtheria-outbreak-at-kings-college-lagos/