The Plateau State Government announced that the death toll from diphtheria in the state has risen to 27, with suspected cases reaching 303. The state epidemiologist, Dr Maren Damulak, disclosed the figures in Jos, the state capital. Most of the suspected cases were recorded in Jos North Local Government Area, with the Rikkos community identified as one of the worst affected. The state government had earlier ordered the temporary closure of all primary and secondary schools after suspected cases were detected in Jos North, Jos South, Bassa and Wase LGAs, a measure aimed at reducing transmission while surveillance and response activities are strengthened. The disease has also claimed lives in communities in Katsina and Kano states.
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.
