The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that the country has recorded a total of 2,765 suspected and 303 confirmed cases of meningitis in the 2022/2023 period. These cases have resulted in 190 deaths across 140 local government areas in 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The NCDC made this announcement in a public health advisory, highlighting its commitment to preventing, detecting, and responding to cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) in the country.
According to Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, the director-general of NCDC, CSM is an epidemic-prone disease that occurs throughout the year in Nigeria. However, certain weather conditions like the dry season with dust, winds, and cold nights, as well as frequent upper respiratory tract infections, can increase the risk of infection, especially in crowded areas with poor ventilation.
Dr. Adetifa noted that the highest burden of CSM in Nigeria is in the “Meningitis Belt,” which includes the 19 states in the Northern region, the FCT, and some southern states. He explained that CSM is caused by the inflammation of the meninges, which are the thin layers covering the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation can be caused by various organisms, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. The transmission typically occurs through direct person-to-person contact.
To protect against meningitis, Dr. Adetifa advised the public to ensure that they have received the appropriate vaccination. The NCDC remains committed to preventing, detecting, and responding to cases of meningitis in Nigeria.
