The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 807 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) and 74 deaths across 22 states as of March 26, 2025. The agency reported a case fatality rate (CFR) of 9.2 percent, raising concerns over the rapid spread of the disease.
In a statement released on Thursday and signed by its Head of Corporate Communication, Sani Datti, the NCDC disclosed that its Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) had been deployed to Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina states, which have recorded the highest number of cases and deaths.
Affected States and Urgent Interventions
According to the NCDC, the 22 affected states include Kebbi, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno, Ebonyi, Oyo, Bauchi, Ondo, Kaduna, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Ekiti, Niger, Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Sokoto.
However, Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto states have reported the most severe impact, with high fatalities and low sample collection rates, necessitating urgent intervention.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, confirmed that the deployed response teams would remain in the affected states for an initial period of 14 days. He added that an extension would be considered if the situation required further intervention.
Strategic Response and Public Health Measures
Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of personal safety and urged all response team members to adhere strictly to infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols throughout the outbreak response.
“The deployed teams, comprising multisectoral and interdisciplinary experts—including specialists in case management and lumbar puncture techniques—are already in the affected states and working closely with the state health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission,” he stated.
The NCDC highlighted key objectives of the response, including:
- Rapid containment of the outbreak.
- Strengthening case management and IPC measures.
- Enhancing surveillance and sample collection.
- Conducting risk communication and community engagement activities.
- Identifying the source of the outbreak and recommending appropriate public health actions.
Preventive and Curative Measures
Preventive Measures:
- Vaccination: Routine immunization and targeted vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas remain the most effective way to prevent meningitis.
- Good Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing with soap and water can help reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
- Avoiding Overcrowding: Ensuring adequate ventilation and reducing overcrowding in living spaces can lower the risk of transmission.
- Use of Protective Masks: Wearing face masks in outbreak-prone areas can help prevent inhalation of infected droplets.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about early symptoms and prevention strategies is crucial.
Curative Measures:
- Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Prompt medical attention and antibiotic treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
- Hospitalization for Severe Cases: In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care, including intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy, may be necessary.
- Use of Antimicrobial Therapy: Specific antibiotics like ceftriaxone or penicillin are commonly used for treating bacterial meningitis.
- Symptomatic Treatment: Fever and pain relief with medications like paracetamol can help manage symptoms.
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: Close contacts of infected individuals may receive preventive antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Public Reactions and Health Advisory
Health experts have urged residents of affected states to take necessary precautions, including seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light occur.
The public is also advised to maintain good hygiene, avoid overcrowded places, and ensure proper ventilation in living areas.
The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting state governments and health partners in responding swiftly and effectively to public health emergencies.
It assured Nigerians that concerted efforts were being made to curb the outbreak and prevent further loss of lives.
As the meningitis outbreak continues to pose a significant public health threat, the effectiveness of containment measures will depend on rapid intervention, increased public awareness, and timely vaccination campaigns in vulnerable communities.
