Nimet listed the states that are most vulnerable to meningitis outbreaks.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has warned about the possible outbreak of meningococcal meningitis in northern Nigeria, saying weather conditions are exacerbated as a major risk factor.
In a meningitis clock issued Wednesday, Nimet said dust particles in the suspension are expected to increase over the next three days, coupled with high heat and humidity.
Residents complained about the intense heat throughout Nigeria, but Nimet warned that the situation was more disastrous in the northern part of the country and on average hotter than in the southern part.
The agency explained that weather conditions “increased the outlook for the outbreak of meningococcal meningitis in the northern part of the country.”
According to Nimet, states that are most vulnerable to outbreaks include Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa and Borno.
The most vulnerable groups include infants, young children, aging, people with weak immune systems, and people with head trauma.
Outbreak at Kebbi
Premium Times reports that Nimet’s warnings occur amid rising in the outbreak of encephalomyelomeningitis (CSM) in Kebbi.
The outbreak affected local government areas of Aliero, Gwandu and Jega in the state.
Sign up for the AllAfrica newsletter for free
Get the latest African news
success!
Almost finished…
You need to check your email address.
Follow the instructions in the email you sent to complete the process.
error!
There was a problem processing the submission. Please try again later.
Kevi State Health Commissioner Yunusa Musa Ismaila, on behalf of the provincial permanent secretary, Shef Nufkoko, revealed the death toll at a press conference by Birnin Kebubi.
The outbreak, which first recorded 26 deaths, escalated sharply and sparked concern among health officials.
On Tuesday, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced plans to deploy a rapid response team to contain the outbreak.
Meningitis, prevention
According to the NCDC, meningitis is meningeal inflammation, a thin layer of connective tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord.
This inflammation can be caused by infection of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Injuries and certain drugs can also cause such inflammation.
Regarding infection, the NCDC said meningitis is transmitted from direct human-to-person contact, including droplets from the infected person’s nose. Close and long-term contact with an infected individual.
“CSM initially manifests itself as fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, photophobia (pain in bright light viewing), stiff neck and changes in levels of consciousness. While observing these signs in younger children can be more difficult, irritating, inability to eat and inactive are common,” the NCDC said.
To reduce the risk of infection, Nimet advises residents to get vaccinated, maintains good hygiene by washing their hands regularly and avoids close contact with infected individuals.
