The Kebbi State Government has confirmed that 26 people have died from a suspected outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis in the Aliero, Gwandu, and Jega local government areas.
Cerebrospinal meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is typically caused by bacteria or viruses and can spread from person to person, posing a significant health risk.
Speaking at press conference in Birnin Kebbi, the State Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Yunusa Ismail, revealed that 248 were recorded in four local government areas of Kebbi State.
Ismail disclosed that eleven samples were collected and sent to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja for testing. Two samples returned negative results, while nine are still pending.
The deaths occurred in several local government areas, with Aleiro recording 6 deaths, Gwandu 15 deaths, and Argungu 1 death.
Ismail assured that the state government has taken swift action, including distributing drugs and essential supplies to the affected areas, setting up isolation centers, and providing sample collection training for local healthcare workers with support from the World Health Organization (WHO).
He also urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell, avoid overcrowded spaces, maintain proper hygiene, and keep their surroundings clean.
To further combat the outbreak, the state government has allocated thirty million naira for the procurement of medicines and other essential resources. Once a positive confirmation is received from the National Reference Laboratory, the state will request vaccines from the federal government to ensure the population is protected.
