Following the death of about 328 as a result of the recent outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis, CSM, in some parts of Nigeria, experts have advised on how to avoid being affected by the disease that is caused by excessive heat.
The disease is mostly caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitides.
Bacterial meningitis is an infection of the meninges, the thin covering of the brain and spinal cord.
According to experts, Symptoms of the disease include stiff neck, high fever, rash, headache, vomiting, and confusion.
According to report from the Ministry of Health, 90 local government areas across 16 States including Lagos, Osun, Zamfara, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Nasarawa, Jigawa, FCT, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, Cross Rivers, and Plateau; have been affected with the epidemic.
Statistics from the Ministry, also has it that 2524 people have been affected across the states and131 samples confirmed in the laboratory with majority as meningitides type C.
A statement released by the Director Media and Public Relations of the Ministry of Health, Boade Akinola, advised that citizens should endeavor to do the following to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Avoidance of overcrowding.
• Sleeping in well ventilated places.
• Avoidance of close and prolonged contact with cases
• Proper disposal of respiratory and throat secretions.
• Strict observance of hand hygiene.
• Reduction in sharing utensils.
• Avoidance of self medication.
• Reduction in hand shaking, kissing or medical intervention such as mouth resuscitation.
• Usage of relevant stereotype vaccination for meningococcal.