The House of Representatives has called for coordinated government intervention to curb the outbreak of meningitis in Kebbi state
The House of Representatives has raised alarm over the devastating outbreak of meningitis in several communities in Kebbi state, which has already claimed 97 lives and led to 546 confirmed cases.
The lawmakers called for immediate and coordinated government intervention to curb the disease’s rapid spread and prevent further loss of life.
This resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by Rep. Mansur Musa (APC Kebbi), during Wednesday’s plenary session.
To this end, the House has called on the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to immediately mobilize resources, including adequate medical supplies and medicines, to contain the outbreak in affected communities.
The Ministry of Health, NCDC, and the National Emergency Management Agency(NEMA) have been directed to launch an aggressive public health awareness campaign.
According to the House the campaign will educate Nigerians—particularly those in affected areas—on meningitis prevention, early symptoms, and the importance of seeking medical attention promptly
Presenting the motion, Rep. Musa expressed deep concern over the highly contagious nature of meningitis, warning that its rapid spread has overwhelmed health systems in affected areas.
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The outbreak has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among Kebbi communities, with reported cases emerging from Gondutang, Chebe, Rukusama, Kosera, Ombasa, Amori, Sabieh, Nashizama, Jemimuzi, Yubegu, Katanga, Gendikemi, Nesarama, and several others.
Recognizing the federal government’s duty to safeguard public health, Rep. Musa emphasized the need for swift action to prevent further escalation.
He called on government agencies to ensure the provision of medical treatment, vaccines, and effective control measures to combat the outbreak.
He stressed the urgent need for the government to take decisive steps in responding to the crisis, warning that delays in medical intervention could result in further fatalities.
Adopting the motion, the House mandated its committee on health and monitoring and Compliance to ensure that government interventions are timely, comprehensive, and well-resourced.
Meningitis: Overview and Prevention
Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by infections. It can lead to serious complications and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets. High temperatures and dust exposure can increase the risk of bacterial meningitis. Meningitis is also linked to other climate factors like drought, flooding, and extreme rainfall.
Causes & Transmission
- Infectious causes: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- Non-infectious causes: Injuries, cancers, or medications (rare).
- Bacterial & viral meningitis spread through saliva and respiratory droplets, while fungal meningitis occurs via inhaled spores.
Symptoms
Common: High fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, and light sensitivity.
Severe: Confusion, drowsiness, rash.
In infants: Irritability, poor feeding, seizures.
Prevention & Vaccination
- Vaccines protect against bacterial meningitis (e.g., meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Hib vaccines).
The CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for adolescents and high-risk individuals.
Vaccination is crucial in preventing outbreaks and severe illness.
STAR Check: Nigerians, particularly, constituents of Gwandu/Aleiro/Jega federal constituency of Kebbi State, can keep tabs on the legislative performance of Rep. Musa throughout the 10th House here
