Plateau State has reported 469 suspected cases of diphtheria and 31 deaths, while 160,000 children have been vaccinated against the disease, the state government says.
Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Ba’amlong, said 10 local government areas have been affected, with Jos North recording the highest number of cases. Seventeen patients are currently receiving treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Specialist Hospital, where isolation centres have been established for suspected cases.
The state has intensified vaccination, surveillance and community sensitisation and has requested additional vaccines from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency. Parents have also been urged to ensure children receive and complete routine immunisation.
Residents were advised to maintain good hygiene, avoid overcrowding and report suspected cases promptly for investigation and appropriate public health intervention.
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