Parents Protest as Diphtheria Spreads in King's College Lagos
Concerns are growing among parents and guardians of students at King’s College, Lagos (KCL) following reports of a suspected diphtheria outbreak that has resulted in the hospitalization of several students. The situation has sparked widespread worry, with parents blaming poor hygiene, overcrowding, and inadequate medical facilities within the school for the potential health crisis.
Despite reassurances from the school’s management, parents argue that a lack of transparency and delayed response have worsened the situation. Many believe the outbreak could have been prevented if better sanitation and health monitoring had been in place.
Parents Express Anger Over School’s Response
Several parents have voiced their frustration, criticizing the school’s handling of the situation. Many claim that despite clear signs of a health crisis, the management failed to act quickly or provide timely information.
"If there was no diphtheria outbreak, why are students suddenly required to wear face masks? Why have some been taken to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)?" a worried parent questioned.
Another parent, who preferred to remain anonymous, described how some students were sent home after experiencing sore throats, fever, and swollen necks—common symptoms of diphtheria. However, instead of promptly addressing the situation, the school reportedly downplayed parents’ concerns.
"Why is the school so secretive about this issue? Parents have been complaining about the poor hygiene of the toilets, the dormitories, and even the quality of food served to students. Now, we are seeing the consequences," another parent lamented.
Parents are also concerned about the lack of medical personnel at the school clinic. Many believe that regular visits from a qualified doctor could have helped in early detection and treatment, potentially preventing further spread of the disease.
History of Health Concerns at King’s College
This is not the first time that diphtheria has been a cause for concern at King’s College. Some parents revealed that as recently as December 2024, several students were hospitalized with diphtheria-like symptoms. One student reportedly did not survive.
"My son was rushed to the hospital with a sore throat, high fever, and a swollen neck. He was admitted for over a week," a parent recounted.
Another parent, whose child also fell ill during the December outbreak, recalled how the lack of clear communication from the school made matters worse. "I only found out about the seriousness of the situation when my son’s friend called me. Parents should not have to rely on their children for critical health updates!"
The recent outbreak has reignited calls for urgent action to improve health and safety standards within the school. Many parents feel that government intervention is necessary to ensure that boarding schools across Nigeria maintain proper hygiene and healthcare facilities.
School and Government Respond with Vaccination Drive
Following the growing outrage, the school’s management and the King’s College Parents-Teachers Association (KCPTA) have partnered with health authorities to administer booster doses of diphtheria vaccines to students. Parents were recently asked to sign consent forms allowing their children to receive the vaccine on school premises.
Ngozi Ogbonna, the Public Relations Officer of KCPTA, assured parents that the situation was under control, urging them to remain calm.
"Some students who displayed symptoms have been isolated and taken to LUTH for diagnosis. Others who develop symptoms will also receive immediate medical attention," she stated.
Health officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) recently visited the school to educate students on diphtheria prevention, proper hygiene, and the importance of vaccination. However, many parents argue that such measures should have been implemented earlier to prevent the outbreak in the first place.
What is Diphtheria and Why is it Dangerous?
Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and respiratory system. The bacteria produce a toxin that can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, and even death if left untreated.
The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, meaning it can be passed from one person to another through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Symptoms often include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Difficulty breathing
Health experts stress that diphtheria is preventable through vaccination. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children should receive six doses of the diphtheria vaccine starting from infancy to ensure long-term immunity.
Call for Long-Term Reforms at King’s College
Beyond the immediate health response, parents insist that the school’s infrastructure and hygiene must be significantly improved to prevent future outbreaks. Key demands include:
1. Improved sanitation – Regular cleaning and maintenance of toilets, dormitories, and dining areas.
2. Stricter food safety measures – Ensuring that students receive nutritious and hygienic meals.
3. Better medical care – Staffing the school clinic with a qualified doctor and ensuring regular health check-ups for students.
4. More transparency – Prompt communication with parents whenever health concerns arise.
5. Stronger government oversight – Regular inspections by health and education authorities to ensure compliance with safety standards.
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