Preparedness for diphtheria epidemic among healthcare workers in Kano State, Nigeria

Diphtheria remains a significant public health threat in Nigeria, highlighting the need for an adequately prepared healthcare workforce and health system. This study assessed healthcare workers' knowledge of diphtheria, infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, and preparedness for diphtheria outbreaks in Kano State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 421 healthcare workers selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, while facility preparedness was assessed using a structured checklist completed by designated facility focal persons in 24 selected health facilities. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed at a 5% significance level using SPSS version 28. Results showed that overall, 51.3% of healthcare workers had poor knowledge of diphtheria, while 53.4% demonstrated poor IPC practices. Healthcare workers in primary healthcare facilities had significantly lower odds of reporting good IPC practices than those in tertiary facilities (OR = 0.097, 95% CI: 0.041-0.232; p < 0.001). Overall, 70.8% of health facilities were classified as poorly prepared. Substantial gaps were identified in healthcare workers' knowledge, IPC practices, and facility-level preparedness. Strengthening healthcare worker training, improving adherence to IPC measures, and enhancing facility-level outbreak preparedness are essential to improve readiness and response to future diphtheria outbreaks.