Gombe begins emergency vaccination after 332 diphtheria cases

Gombe State has begun an emergency vaccination campaign after 332 diphtheria cases were recorded across four local government areas.

The affected areas are Akko, Gombe, Kwami and Funakaye. Health officials are expected to work with schools and communities during the exercise.

Daily Trust and Daily Post reported that the first phase of the immunisation exercise is scheduled to run from September 20 to 24, 2026. The state Ministry of Education also asked school principals to cooperate with health teams and sensitise parents and school groups.

The reports said the vaccination plan includes follow-up doses after the first phase. The second dose is expected 14 days after the first, while a third dose will follow seven days later.

Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that can affect the throat and upper respiratory tract. The fresh campaign is aimed at limiting spread in the affected local government areas, especially around schools and crowded communities.

Sources: Daily Trust, Daily Post