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Experts have called for locals to take precautionary measures and seek immediate medical attention
Nigerian authorities have confirmed that a meningitis outbreak in the northwest was behind the death of at least 26 people over the last two months. The spread of the disease in the state of Kebbi began in January as 200 suspected cases were recorded, the state commissioner for health, Musa Ismail, told reporters in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.
Ismail informed that medical supplies, including doctors and healthcare staff, have already reached the affected areas, and isolation centres have been set up to prevent the further spread of the disease. Sokoto, another state in the northwest and about 150 kilometres (90 miles) away from Kebbi, has urged residents to remain vigilant after several cases were suspected.
Experts have called for locals to take precautionary measures and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if they are experiencing symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, and severe headaches.
Meningitis is more common during the hot season in Nigeria and is a major public health challenge in Africa’s most populous country, affecting the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Apart from meningitis, Nigeria is also battling malaria and has the highest burden in the world.
What is meningitis?
Also known as inflammation of the area surrounding your brain and spinal cord, meningitis is a life-threatening condition. Your meninges protect your brain and spinal cord from injury and provide support and structure. They contain nerves, blood vessels and protective fluid, or cerebrospinal fluid.
Infections of the viruses and bacteria and non-infectious conditions, like cancer or head injuries, can cause meningitis.
Who is at risk of meningitis?
According to experts, your age, where you live or travel, and certain health conditions can increase your risk of meningitis. However, you are at higher risk for meningitis if you:
- Are under five years old, as around 70 per cent of all bacterial meningitis cases affect children under age 5.
- Have a weakened immune system since you may have a weakened immune system if you are living with infections like HIV and cancer.
- Live in a group setting, like in a college dorm
- Have a CSF leak
- Do not have a spleen
- Live in or travel to places where infectious diseases that cause meningitis are common.
- Have chronic nose and ear infections, pneumonia, or widespread blood infection
- Have a head injury
- Living with sickle cell disease
- Drink alcohol
Signs and symptoms of meningitis
Doctors say the symptoms of meningitis are different in babies than in children and adults. In bacterial meningitis, fever, headache, and neck stiffness can come on suddenly, and your condition can worsen rapidly. Other signs include:
- Neck stiffness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Lack of energy, extreme sleepiness
- Lack of appetite
- Small round spots that look like a rash
- Loss of balance and attention
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