NCDC reports surge in meningitis cases with 14 deaths in one week

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has raised concerns over a spike in suspected cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) cases across the country, particularly in the northern states.

According to the NCDC’s latest situation report released on Sunday, a total of 315 suspected cases were recorded between March 17 and 23, 2025, in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Yobe states.

Of these, 38 cases were confirmed, with 14 resulting in death, reflecting a case fatality rate (CFR) of 4.4 percent.

The agency noted that since the beginning of the 2024/2025 meningitis season, 1,826 suspected cases and 151 deaths have been documented nationwide, representing a higher overall CFR of 8.3 percent.

Children between the ages of 5 and 14 remain the most affected demographic, with males accounting for 60 percent of all suspected cases.

In response to the outbreak, the NCDC said it has activated its CSM Emergency Operations Centre and intensified surveillance and control efforts in four local government areas (LGA) across Kebbi and Sokoto states, which have crossed the epidemic threshold.

Despite the grim figures, the agency reported a 65 percent decrease in suspected cases compared to the previous week, signaling a potential slowdown in the outbreak’s spread.

The NCDC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical care at the first sign of symptoms such as fever, headache, neck stiffness, nausea, or vomiting.

It also encouraged the public to report cases by calling its toll-free line at 6232 or visiting its website for more information.

The health agency said efforts to boost awareness and response are ongoing as it continues to monitor and manage the outbreak.