FCTA Warns Against Self-Treatment as Diphtheria Claims Two

On 11 September 2026, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) warned against self-treatment for diphtheria following two recorded deaths in Abuja. Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environmental Secretariat, Adedolapo Fasawe, announced the deployment of a multidisciplinary Incident Management Team to affected communities, including Karshi, to prevent further transmission.

As of last week, the FCTA had investigated 15 suspected cases, confirming five cases and two deaths. Fasawe emphasized the importance of early detection and medical intervention, warning against tampering with the pseudo-membrane in diphtheria patients, citing a tragic incident involving a child.

The Chief of Karshi, Ismaila Mohammed, clarified that the fatalities occurred in a neighboring settlement in Nasarawa State, not directly in Karshi. He expressed support for the FCTA's efforts.

Hanatu Bello from the NCDC assured residents of the agency's support in interrupting transmission and strengthening response efforts.