The diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State has recorded more than 500 cases, with about 31 deaths reported since the outbreak began.
The state Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Ba’amlong, said the disease has now spread to about 10 local government areas, although the rate of deaths among children has declined.
Ba’amlong disclosed that about 425 patients had been treated and discharged, while 17 others are currently receiving treatment.
Seven of the patients are being treated at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, while 10 are receiving care at the Plateau Specialist Hospital.
“Diphtheria is still with us. The number of cases is increasing. The local governments involved are now about 10. But the rate at which the children are dying has reduced,” Ba’amlong said.
He added that vaccination had commenced in schools following their reopening, with one staff member from each school trained to identify symptoms and report suspected cases.
The commissioner said Jos North was prioritised in the vaccination campaign because it has recorded more than 400 cases.
According to him, patients are receiving treatment free of charge, with non-governmental organisations and other partners providing medicines and medical supplies to support the response.
