Meningitis Outbreak: NiMet Alerts Nigerians

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective layers surrounding your brain and spinal cord (meninges). Bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and non-infectious conditions can cause meningitis.

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Nine sample results are pending from the National Reference Laboratory, Abuja. 26 deaths – Gwandu 15, Jega 6, Aliero 4 and Argungu 1

A warning has been issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) regarding the outbreak of meningitis that has been observed throughout the majority of the entire country.

In its most recent report, the agency issued a warning to the general public about the high risk of a meningitis epidemic due to atmospheric conditions, particularly in the northern regions.

Katsina, Jigawa, Kano, Bauchi, and Yobe are the states that have a high probability of the outbreak, according to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Infants, young children, the elderly, those with a compromised immune system, and other individuals who have suffered head injuries were identified as the most vulnerable groups, according to the report. Fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, sensitivity to light, and seizures are some of the symptoms associated with this condition, as stated in the advisory.

It reads, “The observed atmospheric conditions are currently favourable for meningitis, mainly across the northern part of the country. The meningococcal meningitis remains the most prevalent strain within the meningitis belt.”

  • The Safety protocols
  • Getting vaccinated against meningitis
  • Practicing good hygiene by washing the hands
  • Regularly avoiding close contact with those infected.

According IREPORT247NEW, it has been reported by the government of Kebbi that a probable epidemic of cerebrospinal meningitis has resulted in the deaths of twenty-six individuals in three of the state’s Local Government Areas (LGAs).

Aliero, Gwandu, and Jega are the three local governments. During a press event that took place on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi, the Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Musa Ismaila, confirmed this information.

“In week seven, we are saddled with the unfortunate situation of an outbreak, with a rising number of cases more than usual, characterised by symptoms like fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, stomach ache, vomiting, diarrhoea and sensitivity to light.

“A total of 248 suspected cases was line-listed; 11 samples were taken and sent to the National Reference Laboratory, Abuja, for confirmation.

“Two sample results turned negative from the national reference laboratory in Abuja, one in Jega and another one in Gwandu LGAs.

“Nine sample results are pending from the National Reference Laboratory, Abuja. 26 deaths – Gwandu 15, Jega 6, Aliero 4 and Argungu 1.”

According to Ismaila, a tour to stakeholders was carried out in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). This visit was intended to advocate for the cause.

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