Somalia continues to fight against a persistent conflict and recurring climate shocks, including severe floods and droughts. The combination of these humanitarian crises with low vaccination coverage creates fertile ground for the rapid spread of preventable diseases like diphtheria, affecting the vulnerable child population more severely.
"All children, wherever they are, in villages, health centers and schools will be vaccinated," the ministry stated, urging parents to take their children to designated sites.
Underlying Humanitarian Crisis
This health alert aggravates the already deteriorating humanitarian situation in Somalia. Somalia's Ministry of Health and Human Services confirmed a diphtheria outbreak that has already claimed the lives of 50 children across the country. Additionally, it is estimated that around 1,000 people have been infected with the disease, according to Agencia Noticias Argentinas.
According to the ministry, the outbreak has mainly affected children aged between 5 and 15 years.
Urgent Vaccination Campaign
In response to what it called a "dangerous situation" and a "deadly disease", the Somali ministry has launched an emergency vaccination campaign to contain the spread of diphtheria. Vaccination will begin on December 15 and will last for five days.
