The Zamfara State Government has confirmed 44 deaths following a diphtheria outbreak affecting several communities across the state.

The state Ministry of Health said 367 suspected cases have so far been recorded, with more than 320 patients treated and discharged as authorities intensify efforts to contain the disease.

The outbreak has also forced the Zamfara State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology to postpone the reopening of schools for another two weeks.

Laboratory Tests Confirm Diphtheria Outbreak

The Director of Public Health in the state Ministry of Health, Dr Yusuf Haske, disclosed the figures during an interview in Gusau.

He said laboratory examinations carried out on samples from suspected patients confirmed the presence of the bacteria responsible for diphtheria.

According to him, the samples were analysed at the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja, where the diagnosis was verified.

Following the confirmation, the government activated its emergency response structure to coordinate treatment, surveillance and prevention measures.

Health Teams Deploy Across 14 Local Government Areas

Haske said rapid response teams had been deployed across the state’s 14 local government areas to identify cases and provide medical support.

He explained that general hospitals had established isolation facilities for patients, while Gusau Local Government Area recorded the highest number of cases and currently has four treatment centres.

More than 320 patients have already completed treatment and were discharged with medication for continued recovery at home.

Children Among Most Affected

The health official said children aged between six and 10 years were among those most affected by the outbreak.

He explained that continued community transmission remained one of the major factors contributing to the spread of the disease.

Although cases were still being recorded, Haske said the number of deaths had reduced and many patients were responding positively to treatment.

Schools Closed to Reduce Transmission Risk

Following health recommendations, the Zamfara Ministry of Education announced a two-week extension of school resumption.

Education Commissioner Abdulmalik Gajam said the decision was taken to protect pupils, teachers and the wider school community.

He said the additional period would allow authorities to strengthen: Disease surveillance, contact tracing, vaccination checks, public awareness campaigns, preventive health measures

The new tentative resumption date has been set for Monday, September 28, 2026, subject to further health advice.

Schools Ordered to Prepare Before Reopening

The education ministry directed school owners and administrators to comply with the postponement.

Schools were also advised to use the period to clean and disinfect facilities and ensure adequate availability of handwashing points.

Authorities said the measures were necessary to prevent further spread when students eventually return.

Government Urges Early Reporting

The Ministry of Health appealed to residents to seek medical attention immediately if they notice symptoms associated with diphtheria.

Common warning signs include: Severe sore throat, difficulty breathing, weakness, fever, swollen neck, difficulty swallowing

Health officials also urged communities to cooperate with surveillance officers and report suspected cases promptly.