SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS OF DIPHTHERIA EPIDEMICS IN NIGER (2022-2024): FINDINGS, IMPLICATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Background: Diphtheria made a sudden reappearance in Niger in 2022. Objective: To describe the clinical, epidemiological, and evolutionary aspects of the diphtheria epidemics in Niger from 2022-2024. Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on epidemiological and clinical surveillance data reported during the study period. Results: Over 3 years of surveillance, a worrying escalation in number of cases was observed, from 634 in 2022 to 4,002 in 2024 with a total of 8,047 suspected and 518 deaths recorded. Geographically, the epidemy spread from three initial regions to almost the entire country in two years. Demographic analysis identifies children aged 5 to 14 as the most vulnerable group, although all age groups are affected. Clinically, while sore throat and fever are predominant symptoms, the presence of pseudomembranes remains a critical warning sign. This seasonal dynamic, with a peak between August and October, underscores the urgency of strengthening vaccination coverage, early diagnostic capabilities, communication and community engagement to break the chain of transmission.