The state’s Chief Epidemiologist, Dr Maren Damulak, who disclosed the figures whereas briefing newsmen in Jos on Thursday, stated the earlier death toll was 23 however had risen to 27 following the deaths of two dad and mom on Wednesday.
He added that the variety of suspected cases had additionally risen sharply from about 149 to 303, with Jos North Local Government Area, significantly the Rikkos group, recognized as essentially the most affected space.
“As of today, the cases have increased from 149 to 303. The death toll has also increased from 23 to 27. Jos North has the highest number of cases. 99% of the cases are in Jos North,” Damulak stated.
He emphasised that the majority of these affected have been individuals who had not acquired the diphtheria vaccine, significantly kids whose dad and mom didn’t make the most of the federal government’s free vaccination window.
He, nevertheless, assured that the state authorities was doing every thing attainable to include the outbreak, together with the non permanent closure of all major and secondary colleges following the detection of suspected cases in Jos North, Jos South, (*27*) and Wase Local Government Areas.
The measure, Damulak stated, was aimed toward lowering transmission amongst college students and faculty employees whereas well being authorities strengthen surveillance and response actions.
“In Jos North, the local government council has deployed additional logistics, including motorcycles, to enhance contact tracing, field surveillance and community outreach, while Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has directed the immediate mobilisation of drugs and other medical commodities to health facilities to combat the disease,” he added.
