Aden – Yemeni health authorities have confirmed that 22 people have died from diphtheria in government-controlled regions since the start of 2025, as the country faces mounting public health challenges amid ongoing conflict and displacement.

According to official statistics, 380 cases of diphtheria have been recorded so far this year, with Lahij governorate reporting the highest death toll at six fatalities. Abyan governorate registered the largest number of infections with 63 cases, while Taiz and Marib also reported multiple deaths and dozens of suspected cases.

“The resurgence of diphtheria is a direct consequence of years of war, displacement, and underfunded health systems,” said a spokesperson from Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population. “We urgently need to activate nationwide vaccination campaigns to prevent further loss of life.”

The World Health Organization has previously noted that nearly half of Yemen’s health facilities are non-functional or only partially operational, leaving millions without access to basic medical care. The presence of over 4 million internally displaced persons further complicates disease control efforts, especially in overcrowded camps and underserved communities.

Humanitarian agencies are calling for increased international support to contain the outbreak and restore essential health services. Diphtheria, a bacterial infection spread through respiratory droplets, can be prevented through timely vaccination and treated with antitoxins and antibiotics.