Meningitis: 23 suspected cases recorded in Kano
Kano State has recorded 23 suspected cases of meningitis, with samples taken for laboratory confirmation. Dr. Aminu Sudawa, Director of Surveillance and Epidemiology at the Kano State Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, confirmed this in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday. He said the state government, through the agency, is taking proactive steps to […]
Kano State has recorded 23 suspected cases of meningitis, with samples taken for laboratory confirmation.
Dr. Aminu Sudawa, Director of Surveillance and Epidemiology at the Kano State Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, confirmed this in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday.
He said the state government, through the agency, is taking proactive steps to prevent an outbreak by intensifying monitoring, sensitisation and training of health workers.
“So far, 23 suspected cases have been detected and samples have been sent for confirmation. Between now and June, due to the excessive heat, we will be monitoring closely to prevent an outbreak. Our health workers are on high alert, and we will continue public sensitisation,” Dr. Sudawa explained.
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He advised residents to avoid overcrowded places, ensure proper ventilation in sleeping areas, maintain personal hygiene, and practice frequent hand washing.
“Crowded places like correctional centres, schools, and NYSC camps, where many people share accommodation, are particularly vulnerable,” he warned.
Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), also known as meningitis, occurs when there is an acute inflammation of the covering of the brain and the spinal cord.
The inflammation can be caused by infection with any of the following organisms: bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. Injuries and certain drugs can also cause such inflammation.
The most common signs and symptoms are fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, photophobia (pain on looking at bright lights), neck stiffness, and altered conscious levels.
According to medical experts, preventive measures for meningitis include vaccination against the disease; good hygiene practices; avoidance of overcrowded places during outbreaks; as well as early treatment of suspected cases.