The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) held an emergency meeting with health commissioners from Sokoto, Kaduna and Zamfara states to tackle the unidentified illness affecting communities in Sokoto and Zamfara.
NCDC’s director-general, Dr. Jide Idris engaged with health commissioners from Sokoto and Kaduna on April 16, 2024, and also spoke with Zamfara State Health Commissioner by phone.
During the meeting, the commissioners updated on response efforts and discussed measures to contain and mitigate suspected heavy metal poisoning, possibly linked to mining.
Earlier, an investigation into the strange illness in six wards in Sokoto State was announced on April 9.
Following this, a National Rapid Response Team was deployed to work with Sokoto State Ministry of Health to address the incidents.
Initial assessments ruled out infectious origins, leading to a search for alternative causes.
Subsequent tests showed varying lead and chromium levels among affected individuals, indicating possible heavy metal contamination from industrial activities, including mining.
As of the latest report, 196 suspected cases with seven deaths were reported across Isa, Sabon Birni and Ilella local government areas of Sokoto State.
Healthcare workers and affected communities were urged to report symptoms like fever, abdominal swelling, pain, vomiting and weight loss to the nearest health facility or call the NCDC toll-free line.
While ensuring effective containment, the importance of regulating mining activities and enforcing standards to prevent future occurrences was emphasised.
Updates will be provided to the public as new information arises, the NCDC assured.
Science Nigeria reports eight lives lost out of 208 suspected cases of a strange illness in Sabon Birni and Isa local government areas of Sokoto State.
According to the NCDC Centre manager in Sokoto, Dr. Ibrahim Usman, samples collected by NCDC and the Sokoto State government were sent to higher laboratories for testing to determine the disease.
The illness presented symptoms like abdominal distension, fever, vomiting and weight loss, primarily affecting children aged four to 13, along with some adults.
A National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) was deployed by the NCDC to collaborate with the State Ministry of Health for investigation.
Affected children received treatment at the Specialist Hospital Sokoto, while residents were educated on the illness’ dangers and advised to report cases promptly.
