Recent statistics released by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, show that more than 1000 persons have died as a result of Meningitis in Nigeria.
The report revealed that as at May 9, 2017, there have been 13,420 reported cases while 1,069 deaths have been recorded.
Children between ages of 9 and 12 were most affected by the disease which took its worst hit between the 14th and 15th weeks of its outbreak.
The NCDS reported that incidences of meningitis was recorded in 23 states and 211 local government areas across the federation with six worst hit states given as Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi and Yobe.
“From December 13, 2016 to May 8, 2017, 13,420 suspected cases and 1069 deaths (8%) were reported,” the report read.
“Of the 448 laboratory confirmed cases, 293 (65.2%) were Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C.
“In the last four weeks (Epi-week 15-18), 48 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have reached alert/epidemic threshold in six States — Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi and Yobe.”
The NCDC noted that technical teams are still supporting coordination and response activities in the most affected states.
“First batch of medical team deployed to Zamfara and Sokoto States on Saturday, May 6, 2017.
“The team is supporting case management and surveillance activities in these most affected states.
“Second ICG request for Zamfara state has been approved; delivery of 694,065 polysaccharide vaccine doses expected.
The centre assured that the Nigerian government will continue “to work with global health partners to mobilize additional vaccines, procure laboratory and other supplies to assist with the ongoing response.”
It would be recalled that the first case of the recent outbreak of meningitis was recorded in Zamfara state.
Governor of the state, Abdulaziz Yari, came under fierce criticism when he said that the outbreak was a punishment from God for the sins of Nigerians.