Gombe confirms three deaths as meningitis outbreak reported in three LGAs

The Gombe government says the state has recorded three deaths as a result of a cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) outbreak.

Habu Dahiru, commissioner for health, confirmed the development at a press conference in Gombe on Thursday.

Meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord and remains a major public health challenge.

The disease can be caused by different pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, or viruses, but the highest global burden is seen with bacterial meningitis.

Dahiru said 24 patients had so far been treated and discharged, adding that the deaths occurred as a result of the late arrival of the deceased at health facilities.

He said the state had identified 70 suspected cases in nine LGAs and had collected 63 samples.

The commissioner said 31 of the cases returned positive for CSM.

“Epidemic threshold has been reached in wards located in three LGAs of Kaltungo, Yamaltu-Deba, and Gombe,” NAN quoted Dahiru to have said.

“I hereby declare the outbreak of CSM in these locations and will periodically provide additional updates as the situation evolves.”

Dahiru urged the residents to be vigilant and report suspected cases to the health facilities nearest to them for quick medical intervention.

He advised that persons with the symptoms need immediate treatment in a hospital to minimise the risk of complications, including deafness and seizures.

“CSM is transmitted directly from person to person through respiratory droplets from the nose and throat,” he said.

“Poor living conditions, particularly overcrowding, increase the likelihood of transmission.

“I, therefore, urge people of our dear state to minimise overcrowding, drink a lot of water during this hot period, and maintain good environmental and personal hygiene.”