A suspected meningitis outbreak in Udubo village, Gamawa local government area of Bauchi State, has resulted in the tragic loss of six Almajiri pupils. The Chairman of the local government’s caretaker committee, Nasiru Bakura, confirmed the deaths on Friday.
According to Bakura, the six pupils died in three different Tsangaya schools in Udubo town, which are reportedly congested with Almajiri pupils, exacerbating the situation.
Health workers at both the local and state levels are actively managing the outbreak, with drugs procured to treat affected patients.
Public health expert Dr. Hassan Shu’aibu Musa emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging the public to take preventive measures. He explained that meningitis is a serious infectious disease that affects the meninges, with bacterial meningitis being the most prevalent form.
The disease is transmitted through direct contact with infected persons’ saliva or mucus, as well as inhaling droplets.
Dr. Musa advised the public to avoid overcrowded areas, especially during this outbreak, and emphasized that meningitis is a vaccine-preventable disease.
He encouraged parents to ensure their children are vaccinated to be immunized against it. He also clarified that meningitis is not connected to witchcraft and urged patients to consult health experts when symptoms like high fever occur.
