In response to the rise in suspected Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) cases in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina States, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to manage the ongoing outbreak.
A statement by Head Corporate Communication, Sani Datti says a total of 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths have been reported across 22 states, resulting in a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 9.2%.
The affected states include Kebbi, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno, Ebonyi, Oyo, Bauchi, Ondo, Kaduna, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Ekiti, Niger, Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Sokoto.
It said Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto States recorded the highest number of suspected cases, deaths, and CFRs, with relatively low sample collection rates, which necessitated urgent intervention.
According to the Director General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, the teams will operate in these states for 14 days, with extensions where necessary.
Dr Idris who emphasized the importance of personal safety , urged all team members to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols to ensure personal safety during the response.
‘’The deployed teams, comprising multisectoral and interdisciplinary experts—including specialists in case management and lumbar puncture techniques—are already in the affected states and working closely with the state health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission,’’ Dr Idris explained.
He listed the key objectives of the response include:Rapid containment of the outbreak; Strengthening case management and IPC measures; Enhancing surveillance and sample collection; Conducting risk communication and community engagement activities; and Identifying the outbreak’s source and recommending appropriate public health actions.
The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting state governments and partners to safeguard the health of Nigerians through timely and effective response to public health threats.
RN
