Mirian Gom 
PLATEAU, Nigeria – A Plateau diphtheria outbreak has claimed 15 lives and left 117 people with suspected infections in parts of Jos North Local Government Area, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance and urge residents to vaccinate their children against the deadly disease.
The Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Jos North, Baks Bulus, disclosed the figures on Tuesday during a briefing with journalists in Jos, warning that infections could rise if urgent containment measures are not implemented.
“So far, according to the data we have gathered from the communities, 117 people are suspected to have contracted the disease. Out of this number, we have already recorded 15 deaths,” Bulus said.
He revealed that the fatalities occurred within three days of the outbreak, with two siblings aged between 12 and 17 among those who died.
Bulus explained that diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection spread through close contact with infected persons or contaminated personal items such as utensils and towels.
He stressed that vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe illness and death.
“For children who have been vaccinated, the effects may be milder and may not lead to death. But for a child who has not been fully vaccinated or has not completed the required doses, it can be deadly,” he said.
Health officials have deployed surveillance teams to affected communities to identify new cases, sensitise residents and prevent further transmission.
The DSNO urged residents to maintain proper hygiene, avoid overcrowded environments and immediately report symptoms such as sore throat, fever, swollen neck and breathing difficulties at the nearest health facility.
“Most times, people resort to chemists and self-medication, which we do not advise. The best approach is to visit primary healthcare centres where we have the necessary structures and personnel in place,” Bulus said.
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