The Kebbi State government has confirmed a meningitis outbreak in three local government areas (LGAs), resulting in 26 deaths and hundreds of suspected cases. The affected areas are Gwandu, Aleiro, and Jega, where health officials are working to contain the disease.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Kebbi’s Commissioner for Health, Yanusa Ismail, stated that 248 suspected cases have been recorded so far. Eleven samples were taken for laboratory testing, but three have already been confirmed negative. Health officials are awaiting further results to confirm the outbreak's full extent.
In response, the Kebbi State government has approved N30 million for the purchase of medicines and other medical supplies to control the spread. Isolation centers have been set up to treat those infected, while officials continue monitoring the situation closely.
The commissioner urged residents to take preventive measures, including maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding crowded places to reduce the risk of infection. He added that additional samples have been sent to Abuja for further testing. If the disease is confirmed, the state will request vaccines to help curb the spread.
Meningitis is a severe infection affecting the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is a major public health concern and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous form, responsible for the highest number of cases and fatalities worldwide.
The disease spreads through direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person. Common symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and changes in consciousness.
Health officials are urging the public to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms and to follow preventive guidelines. As the government continues its response efforts, authorities are calling for increased awareness and community cooperation to stop the outbreak from worsening.
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