The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 151 deaths and 1,826 suspected cases of meningitis across 23 states, raising serious public health concerns and prompting an intensified national response.
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According to the NCDC’s Epidemiological Week 12 Report, the cases were recorded between March 17 and March 23, 2025, with a case fatality rate of 8.3 percent.
“The majority of infections have been concentrated in northern Nigeria, putting pressure on regional health infrastructure.”
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In it report, NCDC said out of 289 samples collected from suspected cases, 126 tested positive, representing a 44 percent positivity rate.
“The most common strain identified is Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C (NmC), responsible for 27 percent of cases, followed by serogroup W (NmW) at 13.5 percent.”
“Children remain the most vulnerable, with the 5–14 age group showing the highest incidence.”
The outbreak has also revealed a gender disparity, with males accounting for 60 percent of the suspected cases.
“Ten states are currently experiencing the most severe impact, with Kebbi and Sokoto states alone contributing 94 percent of all suspected cases.
“Gwandu Local Government Area (LGA) in Kebbi leads with 313 suspected cases, followed by Tambuwal LGA in Sokoto with 155.”
To curb the spread and impact of the disease, the NCDC has scaled up surveillance activities, laboratory testing, and public sensitisation campaigns.
“Vaccination and other control measures have also been prioritised in the most affected areas”.
The NCDC has urged Nigerians to watch for early symptoms of meningitis, including fever, headache, and neck stiffness, and to seek prompt medical attention to reduce the risk of complications or death.
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