Health authorities in Nigeria’s Plateau State have intensified efforts to contain a suspected diphtheria outbreak following reports of 148 suspected cases and 23 deaths within two weeks.
Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, said children with symptoms suggestive of diphtheria began presenting in early August, particularly in densely populated communities in Jos North Local Government Area.
Health Authorities Intensify Response
Patients with suspected diphtheria are being treated at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and Plateau State Specialist Hospital, where isolation facilities have been established.
State authorities have also strengthened surveillance and obtained materials for collecting and transporting samples for laboratory confirmation. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has been notified as part of the outbreak response.
Access to Diphtheria Antitoxin a Concern
Health authorities have raised concerns about the availability of diphtheria antitoxin, an important treatment for the disease. According to the state health commissioner, the NCDC and Federal Government are working to procure the treatment.
Officials have also identified late presentation at healthcare facilities as a factor contributing to some of the reported deaths.
Vaccination and Community Response Intensified
Vaccination and public-awareness campaigns are being strengthened in affected communities. Health officials reported that some affected children were either unvaccinated or had not completed their routine immunizations.
Traditional, religious and community leaders are also being engaged to encourage vaccination and early reporting of suspected cases.
Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable bacterial infection that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Without timely treatment, severe disease can lead to serious complications and death.
Health authorities are urging parents and caregivers to ensure that children complete their recommended routine vaccinations and to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms are suspected.
The situation remains under surveillance as authorities work to contain further transmission.
Damulak, G. (2026, September 3). Plateau records 148 suspected diphtheria cases and 23 fatalities. FRCN North Central, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.
