As Nigeria enters its peak Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) season from November to May, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised concerns over the increasing number of cases across the country.
The latest figures indicate a surge in infections, with 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths reported across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as of March 26, 2025. The NCDC director-general, Dr. Jide Idris disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.
Idris said the agency has activated emergency response measures to curb the outbreak, particularly in Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto, which are the most affected states. He emphasised that the risk of transmission is high due to dry, dusty weather and overcrowding, which are common factors during the peak season. While vaccination efforts are being intensified, he stressed that public awareness and early detection remain crucial in preventing fatalities.
Kebbi State has recorded 248 suspected cases and 26 deaths since late January, with health authorities describing the situation as alarming. Idris said there is a sharp increase in cases, and urgent intervention is required to prevent further loss of life. In Gombe State, 70 suspected cases have been recorded, with 31 confirmed infections and three fatalities. He urged residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, or severe headaches.
Cerebrospinal Meningitis is a life-threatening infection of the brain and spinal cord caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It spreads through coughing, sneezing and close contact, making overcrowded areas, schools and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps high-risk zones. Common symptoms include severe headache, high fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, confusion, sensitivity to light and seizures in severe cases. Without urgent treatment, meningitis can lead to brain damage, hearing loss, or death within hours.
To curb the outbreak, the NCDC has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to the hardest-hit states. These teams are working with state governments to conduct mass vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas, strengthen case surveillance and laboratory testing, provide free treatment for confirmed cases at government hospitals and launch public awareness drives to educate citizens on prevention. Idris reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective protection against meningitis and urged parents and community leaders to ensure children and at-risk individuals get vaccinated. He assured that vaccines are available at health centres nationwide.
He also advised Nigerians to stay safe by getting vaccinated at their nearest health centre, avoiding overcrowded and poorly ventilated places, practising good hygiene by washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. He urged the public to act now, as their lives could depend on it.
Health officials have been warned that meningitis cases could continue to rise if preventive measures are not taken seriously. The NCDC has called on Nigerians to report suspected cases immediately and has provided its helpline – 6232 – for emergencies. Idris stressed that early detection saves lives and encouraged collective action to stop the outbreak before it claims more victims.
As Nigeria braces for the peak meningitis season, he reassured citizens that vaccines and treatment are available but emphasised that swift action from individuals and communities remains critical in stopping the outbreak. He urged Nigerians to stay alert, get vaccinated and save lives.
