Diphtheria Outbreak Hits Nigerian Boarding School as National Cases Surpass 28,000

A new diphtheria outbreak has been reported in a Nigerian boarding school, according to a Google News report dated November 14, 2026. The outbreak comes as the country grapples with over 28,000 cases of the disease nationwide. The precise location of the school and the number of affected students have not been disclosed. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. It can cause a thick grey membrane to form in the throat and nose, making breathing difficult and potentially leading to heart failure and paralysis. The disease can be fatal if left untreated. It is preventable through vaccination. According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest number of diphtheria cases in the world. The Nigerian government has been urged to intensify efforts to contain the outbreak and ensure that all children are vaccinated. This is a developing story and further details are expected.