The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, has confirmed 315 suspected cases of Cerebro Spinal Meningitis, CSM, within a single week, sparking concern among public health officials.

Between March 17 and 23, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Yobe states recorded the highest numbers, with 38 cases confirmed positive. Tragically, 14 of these cases resulted in death, pushing the week’s case fatality rate,CFR, to 4.4 percent.

The NCDC disclosed that its CSM Emergency Operations Centre had been activated and was closely monitoring the outbreak. Surveillance activities have been heightened in affected areas to swiftly identify and manage new infections.

Since the beginning of the 2024/2025 meningitis season, a total of 1,826 suspected cases and 151 deaths have been documented. This brings the overall CFR to 8.3 percent, a figure that underscores the severity of the disease.

Children aged five to 14 remain the most affected demographic, while males make up about 60 percent of suspected cases. Public health officials warn that the trend highlights the need for targeted health education and vaccination in vulnerable communities.

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In response to the rising numbers, interventions have been scaled up in four Local Government Areas in Kebbi and Sokoto states, where reported cases have exceeded the epidemic threshold. These efforts include intensified public health messaging, vaccination campaigns, and improved access to treatment.

Despite the concerning figures, the NCDC noted a 65 percent drop in suspected cases compared to the previous week. This offers a glimmer of hope that ongoing response efforts may be yielding positive results.

The Centre emphasized the importance of early detection and urged Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention upon experiencing symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, headache, or confusion.

Individuals can contact the NCDC toll-free via 6232 or visit its official website for more information on prevention and treatment. The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and controlling the spread of the disease.

Cerebro spinal meningitis, a severe infection affecting the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord, spreads mainly through respiratory droplets. The disease is most prevalent during the dry season in Nigeria’s northern region, which lies within Africa’s “Meningitis Belt.”

Crediblenewsng.com