Katsina diphtheria outbreak overwhelms hospital

A diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria — Katsina State, Nigeria, has overwhelmed the Federal Teaching Hospital Katsina, particularly its Children's Ward, with a surge in suspected and confirmed cases. The hospital reported severe overcrowding and bed shortages, as patients are referred from other health facilities. Despite the strain, the hospital is making arrangements to accommodate patients and praised its healthcare workers. It called for stronger coordination among health facilities and stakeholders. The Nigeria — Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board is scheduled to provide an update on the outbreak during a press briefing on August 30, 2026. The hospital did not disclose the number of patients or total cases.