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Amidst mounting apprehension and social media reports of a disease outbreak in Nafada Local Government Area of Gombe State, Health Commissioner Dr. Habu Dahiru has confirmed suspected cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM). Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Dahiru revealed that the report was received on February 18th, 2024, prompting an immediate response to mobilize resources and contain the outbreak to protect the public.
He explained that samples are being collected for laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other diseases such as Lassa fever in both Funakaye and Nafada Local Government Areas. Dr. Habu Dahiru further disclosed that 95 cases were identified, with 84 treated and discharged, and 6 currently admitted. Additionally, a total of 29 samples were sent to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) laboratory in Abuja. Out of these, 2 cases from Funakaye Local Government Area were confirmed to be CSM-positive, 20 were negative, while 7 cases are pending results.
The Commissioner lamented 6 recorded deaths, 5 in Nafada and 1 in Funakaye, emphasizing the urgency of response efforts to prevent further loss of life. He highlighted that the state is currently on high alert in both Nafada and Funakaye LGAs. Since the onset of reported cases, the Ministry has activated an Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) comprising key stakeholders such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
Dr. Dahiru noted that the EOC has been tasked with controlling the spread of CSM cases in Funakaye. Furthermore, State Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) have been deployed to support the LGA in conducting sensitization campaigns and engaging community leaders on prevention and control measures. Governor Inuwa Yahaya has approved the provision of free drugs and consumables for suspected cases, with an active case search extended to all wards in Nafada and Funakaye LGAs, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to containing the outbreak and ensuring community well-being.
He urged the public to practice good personal and hand hygiene, avoid overcrowding, and seek immediate medical attention if any signs or symptoms of CSM are noticed. Symptoms of CSM include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, altered conscious level, seizures, rash, muscle, joint, or limb pain.
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