23 dead, 143 infections recorded as diphtheria outbreak sweeps across Plateau
Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, has confirmed the death of 23 people, while 143 suspected cases of infection have been recorded as a diphtheria outbreak sweeps across the state over the last two weeks. Baamlong, who disclosed this in an interview with journalists in Jos on Tuesday, said the state government and his […] 23 dead, 143 infections recorded as diphtheria…
The diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State has claimed 23 lives and infected 143 individuals over the past two weeks, according to the state's Health Commissioner, Nicholas Baamlong. Speaking to journalists in Jos, Baamlong announced that the state government and his ministry have intensified efforts to contain the spread of the highly contagious bacterial disease.
Patients are being quarantined at Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau Specialist Hospital for treatment, while the government has activated awareness campaigns across communities through traditional rulers and other stakeholders to prevent further transmission. Diphtheria is transmitted through respiratory droplets and close contact.
The state is facing challenges in confirming suspected cases due to the unavailability of specialised containers needed for sample collection and transportation to laboratories. Baamlong highlighted that the biggest hurdles are late presentation and obtaining antitoxin, as the disease can spread rapidly through contact, coughing, sneezing, and close association.
The Commissioner assured that the state government has stepped up sensitisation efforts at the community level to educate residents about the disease and prevention methods.
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