FG alerts Nigerians to cerebrospinal meningitis resurgence, urges public to take precaution during dry season

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The Federal Government has alerted Nigerians about the resurgence of Cerebrospinal Meningitis, stressing the heightened risk during the dry season.

Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called meninges. The inflammation from meningitis typically triggers symptoms such as headache, fever and a stiff neck.

Last year, the disease claimed 190 lives nationwide, according to the Federal Government.

Ifedayo Adetufa, Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, reported 2,765 suspected and 303 confirmed cases with 190 deaths in 140 local government areas across 30 states, including the Federal Capital Territory.

Adetufa highlighted the prevalence of the disease in the “Meningitis Belt,” comprising 19 northern states, the FCT, and some southern states.

He said that despite vaccination efforts, CSM remains a persistent threat, prompting ongoing preventive measures and collaborative responses nationwide.

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Among other preventive measures, he said, “At the beginning of the season, all state governments and public health authorities were alerted to the heightened risk of a CSM outbreak and the need for resource mobilisation for preparedness and response activities.

“Routine meetings of the national multi-sectoral CSM TWG (were held) to coordinate prevention and preparedness activities.

“Regular communication (were held) with high-burden states to ascertain status, progress, and challenges.”

Adetufa stressed the importance of appropriate vaccinations, avoiding close contact with confirmed cases, and practicing respiratory hygiene.

Adetufa said it is important to ensure that everyone received the appropriate vaccination required to protect against meningitis while avoiding close and prolonged contact with a confirmed case of CSM, including relatives.

The BCDC boss also cautioned that smoking and overcrowding in households should be avoided, in addition to practicing proper respiratory hygiene when coughing or sneezing.