According to a recent report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the country has recorded 807 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) and 74 deaths across 22 states as of March 26, 2025. The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) currently stands at 9.2%.
The NCDC made this known in a statement titled “CSM Outbreak: NCDC Rapid Response Teams in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina States,” signed by its Head of Corporate Communication, Sani Datti, on Thursday.
The agency has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina, as these states have reported a sharp increase in suspected cases. The teams are expected to assess the situation, support case management, and implement necessary public health measures to curb the spread.
“As of 26th March 2025, a total of 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths have been reported across 22 states, with a CFR of 9.2 per cent. Affected states include Kebbi, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno, Ebonyi, Oyo, Bauchi, Ondo, Kaduna, Osun, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Ekiti, Niger, Plateau, FCT, and Sokoto,” the statement noted.
Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto have reported the highest numbers of cases and fatalities, prompting an urgent response due to their relatively low sample collection rates.
The Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, stated that the deployed teams would remain in the affected states for an initial period of 14 days, with a possible extension if necessary.
He also stressed the need for personal safety, urging all response team members to follow strict infection prevention and control protocols.
“The deployed teams, comprising multisectoral and interdisciplinary experts—including specialists in case management and lumbar puncture techniques—are already in the affected states and working closely with the state health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
“Key objectives of the response include rapid containment of the outbreak; strengthening case management and IPC measures; enhancing surveillance and sample collection; conducting risk communication and community engagement activities; and identifying the outbreak’s source and recommending appropriate public health actions.
“The NCDC remains committed to supporting state governments and partners to safeguard the health of Nigerians through timely and effective response to public health threats,” Idris stated.
Meningitis is a serious infection that affects the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It spreads through close contact, especially in crowded environments. Health authorities are urging the public to maintain good hygiene, avoid overcrowded spaces, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.
