22 Mar 2024 | 10:10 AM UTC
Nigeria: Elevated meningococcal disease activity reported in multiple areas, especially Yobe State, in March
Elevated meningococcal disease activity reported in multiple areas, especially Yobe State, in Nigeria in March. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated meningococcal disease activity in Nigeria, with 1,770 total cases (101 confirmed, 1,669 suspected) reported Jan. 1-March 17. This compared to 628 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Disease activity has been reported in 22 of Nigeria's 36 states. Yobe State (1,186 cases) is the most affected, reporting the highest number of cases. International health organizations, such as the WHO, are collaborating with local health authorities to strengthen disease surveillance, diagnosis, and outbreak response strategies. This represents the most complete data available as of March 22.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against meningococcal disease. Practice basic health precautions. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
Meningococcal disease is a significant public health problem in Africa, especially in countries that lie along the meningitis belt. Part of Nigeria is located in Africa's meningitis belt and disease activity occurs seasonally from December to June, with risk of infection highest between March and April. Nigerian health authorities reported a total of 2,765 cases nationwide in 2022 and 2023.
Meningococcal disease, also called bacterial meningitis, is a bacterial disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Disease transmission usually requires close or lengthy contact with an infected individual. Symptoms typically appear 3-4 days after exposure, but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. The most common symptoms of meningococcal disease are stiff neck, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches, and vomiting.
