The Nigeria Centre for Illness Management and Prevention (NCDC) has raised issues over the rising variety of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) circumstances throughout the nation, saying its peak season is between November and Could.
The most recent figures point out a surge in infections, with 807 suspected circumstances and 74 deaths reported throughout 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as of 26 March, 2025.
The NCDC Director-Basic, Jide Idris, mentioned this in an interview with the Information Company of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.
Mr Idris mentioned the company has activated emergency response measures to curb the outbreak, significantly in Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto—probably the most affected states.“We’re within the peak meningitis season, and the danger of transmission is excessive as a result of dry, dusty climate and overcrowding,” he mentioned.“The federal government is intensifying vaccination efforts, however public consciousness and early detection stay essential in stopping fatalities.”
In keeping with him, in Kebbi State, well being authorities have confirmed 248 suspected circumstances and 26 deaths since late January.
He described the state of affairs as alarming.“We’re experiencing a pointy improve in circumstances, and pressing intervention is required to forestall extra deaths. In Gombe State, 70 suspected circumstances have been recorded, with 31 confirmed infections and three fatalities,” he mentioned.
He urged residents to hunt medical consideration instantly if experiencing any signs.“Meningitis is a lethal however preventable illness. Anybody experiencing excessive fever, stiff neck, or extreme complications ought to go to a well being facility immediately,” he mentioned.
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He mentioned that cerebrospinal meningitis is a life-threatening an infection of the mind and spinal twine, attributable to Neisseria meningitidis micro organism.
He famous that the an infection spreads by means of coughing, sneezing, and shut contact, making overcrowded areas, colleges and IDP camps high-risk zones.“Frequent signs are extreme headache and excessive fever, neck stiffness, vomiting and confusion, sensitivity to gentle and seizures (in extreme circumstances),” he mentioned.
He famous that with out pressing therapy, meningitis might result in mind harm, listening to loss, or dying inside hours.
To curb the outbreak, he mentioned that the company has deployed Fast Response Groups (RRTs) to the hardest-hit states.“These groups are working with state governments to conduct mass vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas, strengthen case surveillance and laboratory testing, present free therapy for confirmed circumstances at authorities hospitals and launch public consciousness drives to coach residents on prevention,” he mentioned.
In keeping with him, vaccination stays the simplest safety in opposition to meningitis.
He appealed to folks and group leaders to make sure that youngsters and at-risk people get vaccinated.
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He mentioned that Nigerians can keep secure by getting vaccinated on the nearest well being centre, avoiding overcrowded, poorly ventilated locations and practising good hygiene—washing arms frequently.
Mr Idris additionally suggested residents to keep away from shut contact with sick people and search rapid medical consideration if signs seem.
He warned well being officers that meningitis circumstances might proceed to rise if preventive measures weren’t taken critically.“Nigerians are urged to report suspected circumstances instantly. For emergencies, dial the NCDC helpline: 6232,” he mentioned.“Early detection saves lives. Let’s work collectively to cease this outbreak earlier than it claims extra victims.”
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