WHO Rapid Risk Assessment: Diphtheria in the African Region, Version 1
Date: November 21, 2025
This comprehensive assessment evaluates the potential threat of diphtheria across the African region, encompassing public health implications, geographical expansion risks, and the likelihood of inadequate control measures given available resources. The findings presented here are designed to enhance transparency in line with the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005, offering valuable insights to national authorities grappling with similar health challenges. Furthermore, this assessment aims to cultivate a shared risk evaluation approach among States Parties and regional and global entities dedicated to preparedness and response in the face of health emergencies.
Key Focus Areas:
- Public Health Impact: Understanding the potential toll on human health.
- Geographical Spread: Assessing the risk of diphtheria's spread across borders.
- Resource Management: Evaluating the capacity to control and manage the disease.
The assessment is a collaborative effort by the WHO's Emergency Response Team, and its 14 pages provide a detailed analysis, offering a valuable resource for decision-makers and healthcare professionals alike.
