The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a public health alert warning of a potential outbreak of meningitis across 13 states in Nigeria.
The affected states include: Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Kaduna, and Borno.
According to NiMet’s Meningitis and Heat Stress Watch released on Friday:
“There is an increased chance of outbreak of Meningococcal meningitis over the country.
This prospect is heightened with the fresh dust haze that came into the country early hours of 11th of April.
Areas most prone to the outbreak includes Parts of Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Kaduna and Borno States.”
NiMet emphasized that the most vulnerable groups include infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It advised these groups to:
Get vaccinated against meningitis
Practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing
Avoid close contact with infected individuals
The agency also urged public health authorities to note the alert and take necessary preventive actions.
In addition to the meningitis alert, the agency warned of rising heat stress levels starting April 12, following three consecutive days of rainfall.
“This is coming after three consecutive days of rainfall over the country. Maximum temperatures over the north are within 40℃. Clear skies and moisture will aid this heat and attendant discomfort.”
“Discomfort levels should be highest over parts of Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe, Yobe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa and Benue states including the Federal Capital Territory.”
NiMet’s advisory underscores the dual threat of meningitis outbreak and extreme heat in many northern states, calling for vigilance and prompt action.
