The Plateau State Government has confirmed 441 suspected cases of cholera and 14 deaths following an outbreak that began in June, prompting intensified emergency response measures to prevent further spread of the disease.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, disclosed the figures in Jos while providing an update on the government’s efforts to contain the outbreak.
According to the commissioner, the outbreak has affected four local government areas, namely Mangu, Jos North, Jos South and Barkin Ladi. In total, 25 wards and 107 settlements have been affected by the disease.
The government said the outbreak has recorded 20 positive Rapid Diagnostic Test cases, while six cases have been confirmed through laboratory culture. The figures underline the seriousness of the situation and the need for sustained surveillance and public health interventions.
Mangu Local Government Area, where the outbreak was first detected in early June, remains one of the most affected areas. The area recorded 53 suspected cases, including 10 positive Rapid Diagnostic Test results and four laboratory-confirmed cases. Ten deaths were also reported across nine wards and 64 settlements in the local government area.
Despite the scale of the outbreak, health authorities say there are indications that the emergency response is beginning to produce positive results. The number of active cases requiring treatment has reportedly declined, with only three patients currently receiving treatment, all in Jos North Local Government Area.
The state government is continuing efforts to strengthen disease surveillance, case management and other interventions aimed at limiting transmission.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease that can become life-threatening within hours if affected persons do not receive prompt treatment. The disease is commonly associated with contaminated food or water and can spread rapidly in communities where access to safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene facilities is inadequate.
The latest outbreak has therefore renewed attention on the importance of preventive measures, particularly in affected communities.
Health authorities are expected to continue working with communities to promote safe water practices, proper sanitation and early reporting of suspected cases. Residents are also encouraged to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms associated with cholera emerge.
The Plateau outbreak highlights the continuing public health importance of strengthening water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure across vulnerable communities.
As emergency interventions continue, the state government’s ability to sustain surveillance and treatment efforts will be critical to preventing additional deaths and bringing the outbreak under control.
With the reported decline in active cases, authorities are hopeful that ongoing interventions will help contain the situation. However, continued vigilance remains essential, particularly in communities already affected by the outbreak and those at risk of further transmission.
