Nigeria's Travel Advisories Increase

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently added another travel advisory focused on disease outbreaks in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

On February 24, 2023, the CDC issued its latest advisory focused on an outbreak of diphtheria in several states in Nigeria.

This Alert - Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions, says vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect people against disease.

If traveling to an affected area in Nigeria, you should be updated with diphtheria vaccinations. Furthermore, discuss the need for a booster dose with your healthcare professional before traveling.

CDC recommends vaccinating everyone two months and older to protect against diphtheria.

Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria that make a toxin that can cause people to get very sick.

The diphtheria bacteria spread from person to person through respiratory droplets, like from coughing or sneezing; people can also get sick from touching open sores or ulcers of people ill with diphtheria.

Without treatment, up to half of patients can die from the disease, says the CDC.

The CDC previously issued travel advisories for Nigeria's vaccine-preventable diseases, such as yellow fever, polio, measles, and Mpox outbreaks.

These travel vaccines are offered in the U.S. at certified clinics and pharmacies.