The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures against the spread of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM).
This was contained in a public health advisory issued by the agency on Thursday.
“As Nigeria continues through the peak dry season months, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) alerts the public to the ongoing risk of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), particularly in states within the African meningitis belt.
“Cerebrospinal meningitis occurs more frequently between December and April, when dry, dusty conditions, overcrowding, and poor ventilation increase the risk of transmission.
“The NCDC urges all Nigerians to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures” the advisory read in part.
NCDC disclosed that Surveillance and response activities were ongoing nationwide, and laboratory testing was being conducted at the state level while national laboratory capacity was being strengthened.
Cerebrospinal meningitis is a serious infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is most commonly caused by bacteria, particularly Neisseria meningitidis.
Bacterial meningitis can progress rapidly and may be fatal within hours if untreated. However, early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment significantly improve survival and reduce complications. CSM spreads through respiratory droplets during close contact, especially in overcrowded or poorly ventilated environments.
Some common symptoms of the disease include: Sudden high fever, Severe headache, Neck stiffness.
Other symptoms may include: Nausea or vomiting, Sensitivity to light, Confusion or altered consciousness, Seizures In infants and young children: Bulging soft spot on the head, Irritability, Refusal to feed and Excessive sleepiness.
“Although children and young adults are commonly affected, meningitis can occur in people of all ages.
“Fever and headache during the dry season should not automatically be assumed to be malaria. Seek immediate medical evaluation”, NCDC warned.
The Agency further explained that children and young adults were most at risk of CSM. People living in overcrowded settings, individuals in dry, dusty environments, Persons with weakened immune systems, Schools, boarding facilities, universities, religious centres, IDP camps, correctional facilities (prisons) and other crowded settings were also at risk. Therefore they should ensure adequate ventilation and prompt reporting of suspected cases.
Consequently, the Agency urged the public
to seek medical care early:
“Do not self-medicate, do not rely on herbal remedies, immediate antibiotic treatment at a health facility is essential. Report promptly to the nearest health facility if symptoms develop.
“Reduce transmission risk, avoid overcrowding where possible, ensure good ventilation in homes and gathering places, cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid sharing drinking cups and utensils.
“Ensure eligible individuals receive meningitis vaccination as advised. Participate in state-led reactive vaccination campaigns, Meningitis vaccines are safe and remain one of the most effective prevention measures”, NCDC said.
