Meningitis: Kano engages FG for vaccines as Kebbi records 56 deaths

Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, has raised concerns over the recent outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) in Kebbi State, warning Kano residents to take preventive measures as the dry season intensifies.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano, on Monday, Dr. Yusuf disclosed that the state government is in discussions with the Federal Government to secure vaccines for Kano residents.

“We are in talks with the FG to get vaccines to immunize people against meningitis,”; he said.

“If they bring it, we will inform people which facility they should go to access it and who is eligible.”;

He clarified that while the vaccine is primarily targeted at individuals aged 15 to 35 years, those above 40 years may not be eligible, although discussions on the matter are still ongoing.

Dr. Yusuf emphasized the highly contagious nature of meningitis, describing it as an airborne disease that spreads through actions as simple as breathing, laughing, or sneezing.

“It is in the nose of humans, and the slightest gesture like breathing, laughing, or sneezing can bring it out,”; he warned.

To reduce the risk of transmission, he advised residents to avoid crowded rooms, ensure proper ventilation, and use face masks where necessary.

The commissioner also noted that meningitis shares symptoms with malaria, making it difficult to detect when handled by unqualified medical personnel.

“Meningitis affects the brain and can cause death. That is why it is important to identify cases early and provide immediate treatment to prevent fatalities,”; he stressed.

Dr. Yusuf urged Kano residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves from infection.

“We should follow all necessary preventive measures to avoid contracting meningitis,”; he advised.

The outbreak in Kebbi has already claimed 56 lives, with confirmed cases continuing to rise.