Diphtheria Outbreak: Plateau Deploys Emergency Medical Supplies as Schools Shut Down
The Plateau State Government has stepped up its response to a diphtheria outbreak by deploying medicines and other medical supplies to hospitals treating affected patients, as concerns grow over the safety of children across the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang directed the immediate mobilisation of medical commodities to health facilities following reports of the outbreak. The Director-General of the Plateau State Drug and Medical Commodity Management Agency, Kim Jerry Bot, said supplies had already been delivered to the Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau State Specialist Hospital.
Bot said the government was working to extend the intervention to other affected health centres, while Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, continued to coordinate efforts to contain the disease.
The response comes after the state government ordered the closure of all public and private primary and secondary schools. The measure is intended to reduce the risk of transmission among children and other members of the school community.
Health authorities had previously raised concerns about the severity of the outbreak, reporting that more than 23 people had died in Wase, Jos South, Bassa and Jos North.
Some affected patients, including children who may be particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases, are receiving treatment at the two hospitals in Jos.
Diphtheria is a highly infectious disease that can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. The outbreak has highlighted the importance of timely treatment, vaccination and strong infection prevention measures to protect children and communities.
As the state expands its response, families are being urged to remain alert to symptoms and seek medical care promptly when illness is suspected.
