Kano State Commissioner for Well being, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, has raised issues over the latest outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in Kebbi State, warning Kano residents to take preventive measures because the dry season intensifies.
Talking at a press briefing held on the Public Well being Emergency Operations Middle (EOC), Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Educating Hospital, Kano, on Monday, Dr. Yusuf disclosed that the state authorities is in discussions with the Federal Authorities to safe vaccines for Kano residents.
“We’re in talks with the FG to get vaccines to immunize folks towards meningitis,” he mentioned.
“If they convey it, we are going to inform folks which facility they need to go to entry it and who’s eligible.”
He clarified that whereas the vaccine is primarily focused at people aged 15 to 35 years, these above 40 years might not be eligible, though discussions on the matter are nonetheless ongoing.
Dr. Yusuf emphasised the extremely contagious nature of meningitis, describing it as an airborne illness that spreads by actions so simple as respiration, laughing, or sneezing.
“It’s within the nostril of people, and the slightest gesture like respiration, laughing, or sneezing can deliver it out,” he warned.
To scale back the danger of transmission, he suggested residents to keep away from crowded rooms, guarantee correct air flow, and use face masks the place obligatory.
The commissioner additionally famous that meningitis shares signs with malaria, making it troublesome to detect when dealt with by unqualified medical personnel.
“Meningitis impacts the mind and may trigger dying. That’s the reason it is very important establish circumstances early and supply fast therapy to forestall fatalities,” he careworn.
Dr. Yusuf urged Kano residents to stay vigilant and comply with security pointers to guard themselves from an infection.
“We should always comply with all obligatory preventive measures to keep away from contracting meningitis,” he suggested.
The outbreak in Kebbi has already claimed 56 lives, with confirmed circumstances persevering with to rise.
