The Plateau State Government has confirmed 441 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths across four local government areas, saying it has intensified emergency response measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Speaking during a press briefing in Jos on Sunday, the government said the outbreak has affected Mangu, Jos North, Jos South and Barkin Ladi LGAs, with only three patients currently on admission, all receiving treatment in Jos North.
The state disclosed that Mangu LGA, where the first laboratory-confirmed case was detected in June 2026, has recorded 159 suspected cases and 10 deaths across 64 settlements in nine wards. It, however, noted that there is currently no active cholera case in the LGA, with the last reported case on July 22, 2026.
In Jos North, the government said 277 suspected cases, seven Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) reactive cases, one laboratory-confirmed case and four deaths have been recorded across 61 settlements in 14 wards.
It added that Jos South recorded only one laboratory-confirmed case, while Barkin Ladi has reported 23 suspected cases and two RDT reactive cases, with no death recorded.
The government said, “Although transmission has been interrupted in Mangu LGA, cholera continues to spread across other affected local government areas. The recent increase in cases highlights the need for sustained vigilance, early reporting and strong community participation.”
According to the government, surveillance has been strengthened through active case searches, expanded community surveillance and improved reporting systems, while treatment centres have been supplied with Oral Rehydration Salts, intravenous fluids, antibiotics and other essential commodities.
It said, “Free or subsidised treatment is being provided for cholera patients in designated treatment centres, while additional Oral Rehydration Points will be established in Jos North LGA.”
The government also disclosed that Rapid Diagnostic Test kits have been distributed to affected LGAs, while laboratory confirmation through stool culture is ongoing to support surveillance and guide public health interventions.
It said intensive community sensitisation, engagement with traditional and religious leaders, media campaigns and house-to-house hygiene education are being sustained to promote early treatment and discourage self-medication.
The government further revealed that water, sanitation and hygiene interventions, including household water treatment, environmental sanitation, safe water storage and monitoring of contaminated water sources, have been intensified across affected communities.
It advised residents to drink only treated water, wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water, maintain proper sanitation, cook food thoroughly and report symptoms such as sudden watery diarrhoea or vomiting immediately at the nearest health facility.
The Plateau State Government reaffirmed its commitment to ending the outbreak, appreciating Governor Caleb Mutfwang, healthcare workers, rapid response teams, development partners, including WHO, UNICEF and FHI 360-EPIC, as well as the media for their support in the ongoing response.
