Plateau cholera outbreak claims 5 deaths, 11 confirmed cases

Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, Plateau’s Commissioner for Health, reported that the state has recorded 11 confirmed cholera cases, five deaths, and 53 suspected cases.

Baamlong disclosed these figures to journalists on Sunday in Jos. The confirmed and suspected cases have been reported in the Pushit, Mangu 1, and Mangu 2 communities within Mangu Local Government Area.

The state Ministry of Health is intensifying public health interventions to contain the outbreak, prevent further spread, and lessen its impact on affected communities.

He said the state has taken decisive steps to control the outbreak and protect its citizens, including deploying additional Rapid Response Teams to the affected wards, expanding treatment centers and isolation capacity, and procuring Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits, intravenous fluids, and essential drugs.

The Commissioner added that the ministry has activated an Incident Management System to coordinate a comprehensive, multi‑sectoral response.

“The activation of the IMS ensures a coordinated, efficient, and accountable response structure in line with national and international emergency response frameworks,” he said.

Baamlong explained that cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

He urged residents of Mangu LGA and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures, such as drinking safe water, practicing proper hand hygiene, avoiding open defecation, and ensuring proper waste disposal.

He also advised residents to report suspected cholera cases promptly to the nearest healthcare facility for immediate attention.

While reaffirming the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well‑being of residents, Baamlong called on development partners and other stakeholders to support ongoing response efforts.

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