From hassan Ishaku, Jalingo

Taraba State has recorded its first confirmed case of diphtheria, with the disease claiming the life of a patient in Bali Local Government Area.

The State Epidemiologist and Coordinator of Health Security, Dr. Udi Aketemo, disclosed this in an interview with our reporter in Jalingo.

Aketemo said the confirmed case was recorded in Bali, adding that the patient died from the bacterial infection before comprehensive clinical management could prevent the fatal outcome.

He said the state initially faced difficulties in diagnosing suspected cases due to the lack of appropriate diagnostic facilities.

According to him, the challenge has now been addressed following the deployment of testing kits and specialised laboratory equipment to the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.

The epidemiologist said the development would strengthen the state’s capacity to detect and confirm suspected diphtheria cases more rapidly.

He disclosed that 14 suspected cases were subsequently identified and tested, but all 14 samples returned negative.

Aketemo said the Ministry of Health had activated its public health surveillance system to contain the disease and prevent further transmission, particularly in Bali and surrounding communities.

He explained that the surveillance system would track suspected cases, monitor high-risk communities and facilitate rapid medical intervention where necessary.

The confirmation of the case means Taraba has joined the growing number of states in Nigeria responding to diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease.

Health officials have urged parents and caregivers across the state, particularly those in Bali, to ensure that children are fully vaccinated under the routine immunisation programme.

Residents have also been advised to report suspected symptoms, including severe sore throat, fever and difficulty breathing, to the nearest health facility without delay.

Authorities stressed that sustained surveillance, early detection, vaccination and community awareness would be critical to preventing further spread of the disease in the state.