The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued an alert warning of a heightened risk of meningitis outbreaks across the country, particularly in northern states, due to prevailing atmospheric conditions.
According to the alert posted on the agency’s official X account, meningococcal meningitis is the most common strain of the disease.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes meningitis as a serious infection of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
It is a devastating disease and remains a major public health challenge. While meningitis can be caused by many various pathogens including bacteria, fungi or viruses, bacterial meningitis accounts for the highest global burden due to its severity and potential for outbreaks.
Symptoms
NiMet advised the public to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, sensitivity to light, confusion and seizures.
Who is at risk?
The agency stated that infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised, that is, individuals with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to the disease.
Preventive measures
To mitigate the spread of the disease, NiMet has urged the public to get vaccinated, maintain good hygiene and seek early medical treatment to prevent severe complications and fatalities.
NiMet also urged relevant agencies, authorities and the general public to stay alert, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Heat stress warning
The agency had earlier issued a heat stress warning, cautioning that the rising temperatures and high humidity levels could lead to thermal discomfort across several regions.
According to NiMet, the most affected areas include North-Central and Eastern states such as Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi, Cross River, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Other vulnerable regions highlighted in the warning include the Southwest, coastal areas, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Sokoto.
The agency further warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat could result in health risks such as fatigue, irritability, reduced focus and motor skills, as well as lower productivity.
To mitigate these risks, NiMet advised the public to stay cool by using fans or air conditioning, wear light and breathable clothing, drink plenty of water, and avoid peak sun hours between 12 noon and 3pm. The agency also recommended using protective measures such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen when outdoors.
