Health authorities in Sokoto are battling to contain a growing meningitis outbreak after dozens of deaths were recorded across the state.
The Sokoto State government has confirmed that 33 people have died following a meningitis outbreak that has spread across eight local government areas in the state.
Officials said at least 256 suspected cases have been recorded since the outbreak resurfaced about a month ago. Health teams are currently carrying out emergency response measures to prevent further spread of the disease.
According to state authorities, intensified medical interventions and public health campaigns have helped stabilize the situation, with no recent deaths reported among patients currently receiving treatment.
Residents have been urged to report symptoms early and seek immediate medical care at approved health centres. Authorities also warned against misinformation and harmful beliefs surrounding meningitis, saying delayed treatment increases the risk of death and complications.
Meningitis is an infection that affects the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms often include fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and vomiting. The disease spreads more easily in crowded areas and during hot weather conditions common across northern Nigeria.
Nigeria has experienced repeated meningitis outbreaks over the years, especially within states located in Africa’s “meningitis belt,” where seasonal outbreaks are common during the dry season.
Health officials say surveillance, vaccination efforts and public awareness campaigns are continuing as the government works to fully contain the outbreak in Sokoto.