Nigeria: Elevated meningococcal disease activity reported in northern states through April

Event

Health officials continue to report elevated meningococcal disease activity in Nigeria, with 880 cases reported Jan. 1-April 16. This is compared to 118 cases reported between Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2022. The current outbreak started on Oct. 1, 2022. Yobe State is the most affected, followed by Jigawa State. Health authorities have continued contact tracing and implemented mass vaccination campaigns to control the outbreak. This represents the most complete data available as of May 1.

Context

Meningococcal disease is a significant public health problem in Africa, especially in countries along the meningitis belt. Part of Nigeria is located in Africa’s meningitis belt and risk of infection exists nationwide, year-round, especially in rural densely populated areas. Nigeria reported 118 cases of meningococcal disease in 2022, only 30 cases in 2021, zero cases in 2020, and 119 cases in 2019.

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.

Advice

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.