Health authorities in Plateau and Niger states are intensifying vaccination and disease-prevention efforts following fatalities linked to diphtheria and cholera.
Plateau State alone has recorded 29 deaths from diphtheria, while another 20 people have reportedly died from cholera.
Diphtheria Claims 29 Lives in Plateau
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, disclosed that 29 people had died from diphtheria following an outbreak that began in August.
More than 300 cases have reportedly been recorded since the outbreak started.
Nine patients were receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, while another eight were admitted at Plateau State Specialist Hospital.
The state government has continued efforts to contain the outbreak while urging residents to take preventive measures seriously.
Cholera Also Records Fatalities
Plateau has also recorded 20 deaths from cholera, with Jos North and Mangu among the areas identified as being affected.
Health authorities have continued to stress the importance of hygiene, clean water and early medical attention in preventing further spread.
The twin outbreaks have raised concerns about the vulnerability of communities, particularly children, to preventable infectious diseases.
Niger Tightens School Vaccination Rules
In neighbouring Niger State, authorities have introduced stricter vaccination requirements as part of efforts to prevent the spread of diphtheria.
Schools have been directed to request vaccination cards from new students as part of the state’s disease-control measures.
The move is particularly important as schools reopen and large numbers of children return to classrooms.
Health officials have also appealed to parents to ensure that their children receive routine vaccinations and seek medical attention when symptoms of infectious diseases appear.
The vaccination drive is expected to continue as authorities work to prevent further deaths and contain outbreaks across affected communities.
