ABUJA, Nigeria — Officials in Nigeria have confirmed that a meningitis outbreak in the northwest has resulted in the deaths of at least 26 individuals over the past several weeks.
The disease began spreading in Kebbi state at the end of January, with authorities recording over 200 suspected cases, as revealed by Musa Ismail, the state’s health commissioner, during a press conference in Birnin Kebbi, the state’s capital.
To curb the disease’s spread, Ismail announced that medical supplies have been delivered to the affected regions, and isolation centers have been established. This proactive approach is aimed at preventing further transmission of the illness.
In Sokoto, another northwestern state approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles) away from Kebbi, authorities have called on residents to stay alert following reports of several suspected cases. Faruk Abubakar, Sokoto’s commissioner for health, advised the populace to adopt preventive measures and to seek prompt medical care if they exhibit symptoms like high fever, stiff neck, and severe headaches.
