Plateau Schools To Reopen September 14 After Diphtheria Closure

Primary and secondary schools in Plateau State are to resume academic activities on Monday, September 14, after a temporary closure linked to suspected diphtheria cases.

The state government said the reopening applies to public and private schools. The decision follows health measures introduced after schools were closed from September 7 to allow officials assess the situation and strengthen surveillance.

The announcement is a new step in Plateau’s diphtheria response after NaijaTrend earlier reported here on the state’s rising suspected cases and deaths.

Commissioner for Information and Communication Joyce Lohya Ramnap said the government had directed resumption after precautionary and public health measures were put in place. The government also urged parents, teachers and community members not to hide suspected cases.

According to the government, schools are expected to continue with the health precautions already introduced. The statement also asked school heads and community leaders to cooperate with health workers so that suspected cases can be reported early.

Vanguard reported that the closure was meant to give health authorities time to assess affected and potentially affected communities. Punch and Daily Post also reported the September 14 reopening date and the warning against concealing illness.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard, Daily Post