NiMet Lists 11 High-Risk States as Meningitis Threat Rises in Nigeria

NiMet Lists 11 High-Risk States as Meningitis Threat Rises in Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that at least 11 states in northern Nigeria face a high risk of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) as dry and dusty weather conditions intensify across the region.

In a public health advisory issued on Thursday, the agency identified Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Yobe and Borno as areas with the highest risk of the disease.

Cerebrospinal meningitis is a severe infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.

The agency warned that the infection can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within hours if not treated promptly, although early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment significantly improve survival rates.

The advisory comes as Nigeria continues to battle periodic outbreaks of meningitis, particularly in states within the African “meningitis belt.”

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the country recorded over 1,800 suspected cases and more than 150 deaths during the recent meningitis season across more than 20 states.

Health authorities say northern states such as Kebbi, Sokoto and Katsina have historically recorded the highest burden of cases, prompting the deployment of rapid response teams during previous outbreaks.

NiMet explained that weather conditions during Nigeria’s dry season; particularly between December and April create a favourable environment for the spread of the disease. Low humidity, intense heat and dusty winds can damage the protective lining of the nose and throat, making it easier for the bacteria to infect individuals.

Beyond the high-risk northern states, the agency advised residents of central Nigeria to remain vigilant and report suspected symptoms early. Meanwhile, Plateau, Oyo, Cross River, Edo, Ekiti and Enugu were categorised as low-vigilance states.

NiMet also identified groups most vulnerable to the disease, including children, young adults, people living in overcrowded environments, individuals exposed to dry and dusty conditions and those with weakened immune systems.

“Common symptoms include sudden high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting and sensitivity to light,” the agency noted.

To reduce the risk of infection, NiMet urged residents to get vaccinated, maintain good personal hygiene, avoid overcrowded environments and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.

“Practice Good Hygiene; Wash hands regularly and avoid sharing personal items like cups or utensils,” NiMet emphasized.

It also called on communities to support public health campaigns aimed at improving awareness and encouraging early treatment, stressing that timely intervention remains critical to preventing fatalities.