The death toll from the diphtheria outbreak in Plateau State has risen to 28, with 388 suspected cases recorded across the state.
The State Epidemiologist, Dr Job Maren, disclosed the latest figures on Thursday, saying 150 samples sent to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja were still awaiting confirmation.
Maren said 19 patients were currently receiving treatment in two health facilities in Jos.
According to him, 10 patients were admitted at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), while nine others were receiving treatment at the State Specialist Hospital.
He said the patients currently on admission were between four and 14 years old.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Ba’amlong, also confirmed the figures and said the government was taking steps to contain the outbreak.
Ba’amlong urged residents to remain cautious, particularly when using public transportation and attending crowded gatherings, as health authorities work to prevent further spread of the disease.
The commissioner also disclosed that Plateau State was still waiting for vaccines expected to support the outbreak response.
“We are yet to get the vaccine, we are still expecting it. Once we get it, we will roll it out,” Ba’amlong said.
He added that the 150 samples currently with the reference laboratory in Abuja were still being processed, with the state awaiting the results.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that can affect the respiratory system and spread through close contact with an infected person.
Health authorities have continued to urge residents to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms associated with the disease occur and to observe recommended preventive measures.
