Diphtheria Outbreak: 23 Dead, 143 Suspected Cases, Nine Hospitalised

Plateau State is battling a diphtheria outbreak after 23 people reportedly died, while 143 suspected cases have been recorded across the State within the last two weeks.

The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Baamlong, disclosed this while speaking with Journalists in Jos on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Global Mirror News gathered that the State Government, through the Ministry of Health, has intensified measures to contain the spread of the highly contagious bacterial disease and prevent additional deaths.

According to Baamlong, patients identified as suspected cases have been immediately quarantined and are receiving treatment under isolation at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and the Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos.

He explained that the decision to isolate suspected patients was aimed at limiting person-to-person transmission, particularly because diphtheria can spread through respiratory droplets and close contact with infected individuals.

“So far, we have 143 suspected cases; we have had 23 deaths and nine currently on admission at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH, and the Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos,” Baamlong said.

Diagnosis hampered by lack of sample containers

The Commissioner disclosed that the State is facing difficulties confirming suspected cases because of the unavailability of specialised containers required for collecting and transporting samples to laboratories.

He said the lack of the appropriate sample-collection materials was making laboratory confirmation of suspected infections more difficult.

“We are having challenges with the diagnosis because the sample is supposed to be collected in a special container so that we can send it for confirmation, but we do not have such containers,” he said.

Despite the challenge, Baamlong said the health authorities were continuing surveillance and response efforts to limit the spread of the disease.

Late presentation, antitoxin shortage pose challenges

The Commissioner also identified late presentation of patients and difficulties in obtaining diphtheria antitoxin as major challenges confronting the state’s response to the outbreak.

He warned that diphtheria can spread rapidly, especially through coughing, sneezing, respiratory droplets and close association with infected persons.

The warning has heightened the need for residents to seek medical attention promptly whenever symptoms associated with the disease are noticed.

Government launches community awareness campaign

Global Mirror News gathered that the Plateau State Government has also intensified sensitisation campaigns across communities as part of its efforts to prevent further transmission.

Baamlong said the government was working with traditional rulers and other community stakeholders to educate residents about diphtheria, how it spreads and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their families.

“We have so far activated awareness campaigns in communities through traditional rulers and other stakeholders to curtail the spread,” the Commissioner stated.

The Government is expected to continue community mobilisation and surveillance efforts while health workers monitor suspected cases and provide treatment to those currently hospitalised.

What residents need to know about diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious and highly contagious bacterial infection that can spread from one person to another, particularly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Close physical contact with an infected person can also increase the risk of transmission.

The disease can become life-threatening when treatment is delayed. Severe infections may affect breathing and can lead to serious complications, including damage to vital organs.

Early medical attention is therefore important, particularly when symptoms suggestive of diphtheria occur.

With 23 deaths and 143 suspected infections already recorded, the Plateau State health authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with health officials and community leaders as efforts continue to contain the outbreak.

Global Mirror News will continue to monitor the situation and bring readers updates as health authorities provide further information.