Somalia: Diphtheria Outbreak - Jul 2025

A diphtheria outbreak is ongoing in Mudug region, Puntland, Somalia, as of late July 2025. The outbreak affects an area within approximately 25 kilometers and is classified as a high-severity public health emergency.

If you are currently in the affected area, be aware that diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection spread through respiratory droplets. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as a thick grey coating in the throat, difficulty breathing, or swollen neck glands. Avoid close contact with sick individuals and maintain good respiratory hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes.

Follow all guidance from local health authorities and the Somali Ministry of Health. If you have not been vaccinated against diphtheria, consult local health services about vaccination availability. Monitor your health closely and maintain distance from crowded settings where transmission risk is higher.

This alert is based on data from ReliefWeb.