The Kebbi State Government has confirmed an outbreak of meningitis in three local government areas of the state, resulting in 26 deaths.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner for Health, Yanusa Ismail, identified Gwandu, Aleiro, and Jega as the affected areas. He revealed that a total of 248 suspected cases have been recorded so far, with 11 samples sent for laboratory examination. Of these, three have tested negative.
In response to the outbreak, the Kebbi State Government has approved N30 million for the procurement of essential drugs to contain the disease and prevent further spread. The state has also set up isolation centres to manage confirmed cases.
Ismail urged residents to prioritise personal hygiene and avoid crowded places to minimise the risk of infection. He also stated that additional samples have been sent to Abuja for further testing. If meningitis is confirmed, the state government will request vaccines to curb the outbreak.
Meningitis is a serious infection that affects the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It remains a major public health challenge, particularly in regions prone to outbreaks. The disease can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, with bacterial meningitis being the most severe and responsible for the highest number of cases globally. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets or throat secretions from an infected person.
Common symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and altered levels of consciousness. Health experts emphasise that early detection and prompt medical intervention are critical in reducing fatalities and preventing further transmission.
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