Following the recent diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Lagos, medical experts have emphasized the need for psychosocial support to help students cope with the trauma, fear, and anxiety triggered by the incident.
A Consultant Psychiatrist and Clinical Director at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Dr. Stephen Oluwaniyi, stressed that students require close monitoring and counseling to manage the emotional distress caused by the outbreak, particularly the loss of a fellow student.
The bacterial infection, which struck the King’s College Annex in Lagos, led to the death of one student, while others were admitted to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, for treatment. Reports indicate that cases of diphtheria within the school were first noticed between November and December 2024.
Oluwaniyi warned that the tragic event could lead to fear, trauma, anxiety, depression, and even nightmares, especially for students who had close relationships with those affected. He highlighted the need for structured mental health support, allowing students to express their feelings and concerns about the school’s health facilities.
“There’s an urgent need for psychosocial support, not only due to the fear of contracting the disease but also the grief and mourning from losing a fellow student,” he stated.
READ ALSO: Lawmakers urges immediate diphtheria vaccination in schools
He advised that students showing signs of acute stress reaction, anxiety disorder, or depression should be identified and referred to specialists for counseling and treatment to prevent long-term mental health issues.
In addition, Dr. Veronica Nyamali, a consultant psychiatrist and former Vice-President of the Association of Psychiatrists of Nigeria, called for intensive education on diphtheria, its symptoms, transmission, and prevention.
She emphasized that students must understand that contracting diphtheria is not a death sentence, as misinformation could worsen anxiety levels. Beyond medical intervention, she highlighted the importance of proper hygiene practices, hand washing, sanitization, and environmental cleanliness as preventive measures.
“It is essential to erase the fears, speculations, and misconceptions already spreading among students by providing them with the right information,” Nyamali stated.
With both medical and psychological interventions, experts believe that students at King’s College, Lagos, can navigate this crisis with better mental resilience and awareness.
NAN
