The Plateau State Government has strengthened its emergency response to a cholera outbreak that has claimed 14 lives and affected four local government areas.
State authorities said 441 suspected cases have been recorded in 127 communities over the past two months.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, disclosed the figures during a press briefing in Jos. He explained that the outbreak was first confirmed in Mangu Local Government Area in June 2026 through laboratory testing.
Following the confirmation, the Ministry of Health activated a coordinated emergency response with support from local councils, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and development partners.
According to Ba’amlong, Mangu recorded 159 suspected cases and 10 deaths as of July 26. The outbreak has spread across 64 settlements in nine wards.
The government has distributed rapid diagnostic test kits to affected areas and strengthened laboratory testing to improve disease surveillance. Health officials have also launched public awareness campaigns through radio, television and community outreach. Traditional rulers, religious leaders and community influencers are encouraging residents to seek medical care early and avoid self-medication.
Authorities have intensified water, sanitation and hygiene measures, including water chlorination, environmental sanitation, household hygiene education and monitoring of contaminated water sources.
Residents have been advised to drink only treated or boiled water, wash their hands regularly, and maintain clean surroundings. They have also been advised to report symptoms such as watery diarrhoea or vomiting to the nearest health facility immediately.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to containing the outbreak through improved surveillance, case management, laboratory services and public health interventions.
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