Heatwave in Nigeria may trigger meningitis outbreak, says NiMET

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) says a meningitis outbreak is possible amid the heatwave across the country.

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

In its weather outlook released on Wednesday, the agency said the current atmospheric condition in the country could heighten the outbreak of the infection in the northern region.

NiMET noted that children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at risk of the sickness.

The agency called on relevant authorities to act swiftly to contain possible outbreaks, noting that symptoms of the infection include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, light sensitivity, confusion, and seizures.

It urged the public to get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and seek early treatment if symptoms appear.

“High risk of meningitis outbreak due to current atmospheric conditions, especially in northern Nigeria. Meningococcal meningitis is the most prevalent strain,” NiMET said.

Meanwhile, the Kebbi state government has confirmed the outbreak of meningitis in three LGAs, with 26 fatalities recorded.

Yanusa Ismail, the commissioner for health, on Tuesday, said the state has recorded 248 suspected cases, with 11 samples taken for examination, out of which three have been confirmed negative.