Plateau State has intensified measures to contain a growing diphtheria outbreak, with health authorities confirming 303 suspected cases and 27 deaths recorded across affected communities. The latest figures were announced on Wednesday in Jos by the State Epidemiologist, Dr Maren Damulak, as government agencies scale up efforts to limit further spread.

The outbreak has placed increased attention on vulnerable communities, particularly children who make up a significant number of those affected. According to health officials, Jos North Local Government Area has recorded the highest number of suspected cases, with Rikkos community among the areas experiencing major impact.

To reduce transmission, the Plateau State Government has expanded surveillance activities, increased contact tracing and intensified public awareness campaigns in affected locations. Authorities have also continued vaccination efforts as part of measures to protect residents and prevent additional infections.

The government had earlier announced the temporary closure of public and private primary and secondary schools across the state from September 7, following the detection of suspected cases in Jos North, Jos South, Bassa and Wase Local Government Areas. Officials said the decision was aimed at reducing exposure among pupils, teachers and other school workers while health teams strengthen their response.

Medical teams at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and the Plateau State Specialist Hospital are currently managing suspected cases, with isolation facilities provided for patients. The Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, John Christopher, said additional resources, including motorcycles, have been deployed to support field investigations, community visits and contact tracing.

Christopher, during an assessment tour of affected areas and a visit to patients at the Primary Healthcare Clinic in Abba Na Shehu Ward, urged residents to maintain proper hygiene and seek medical attention quickly when symptoms appear. He advised communities to report warning signs such as sore throat, fever, breathing difficulties and neck swelling, while encouraging proper waste disposal and environmental sanitation.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government has directed the immediate supply of medicines and medical materials to facilities treating affected patients. The Director-General of the Plateau State Drug and Medical Commodity Management Agency, Kim Jerry Bot, said the directive from Governor Caleb Mutfwang had been implemented, with supplies already delivered to major treatment centres as authorities continue monitoring the outbreak.