Nigerian health authorities are facing a significant challenge in containing a rapidly spreading meningitis outbreak that has claimed the lives of 151 people across the country, primarily affecting children in remote areas of the northern region.

The outbreak, which began in October, has now spread to 23 of Nigeria’s 36 states, with nearly half of the reported deaths—74—occurring this year alone. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has described the recent rise in fatalities as “alarming,” attributing many deaths to infected individuals either not seeking medical care or arriving at health facilities too late with severe complications.

The current outbreak is particularly concerning as it coincides with a period when Nigeria’s health sector is already struggling due to cuts in U.S. aid ordered by the Trump administration in February, which have impacted multiple countries. Historically, Nigeria has relied heavily on such aid to combat similar outbreaks and support its underfunded healthcare system.

Seasonal meningitis outbreaks are common during the dry season in northern Nigeria, where most of the worst-hit states are located. Meningitis affects the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord and poses a major public health challenge for a country already dealing with “the world’s highest burden of malaria,” according to the World Health Organization.

Last week, Nigeria received its first batch of over 1 million vaccine doses from the global vaccine alliance Gavi, which local officials have described as a crucial milestone in responding to the outbreak. The NCDC is also collaborating with state authorities to enhance disease surveillance efforts focused on tracking new cases, conducting laboratory testing, and launching public sensitization campaigns aimed at curbing the outbreak. These campaigns encourage residents to take precautionary measures and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, and severe headaches.

However, access to hospitals remains a significant issue, particularly for those living in remote areas. Simba Tirima, Nigeria’s country representative for Doctors Without Borders (MSF), highlighted that hundreds of admissions and numerous deaths have occurred within just a few weeks. He noted that the high fatality rate is largely due to challenges in accessing care and low vaccination coverage. Tirima emphasized that meningitis can progress rapidly, with patients’ conditions deteriorating within 24 hours, calling for mass vaccination campaigns to protect vulnerable populations.

EN ESTA NOTA: