The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says Nigeria has recorded a total of 807 suspected cases of cerebrospinal meningitis and 74 deaths from 22 states as of March 26, 2025.
The NCDC reported a 9.2% case fatality rate as of March 26, 2025, 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 Rapid Response Teams are already deployed in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina states in response to the ongoing CSM outbreak.
“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.
“Kebbi, Katsina, and Sokoto States have recorded the highest number of suspected cases, deaths, and CFRs, with relatively low sample collection rates, necessitating urgent intervention,” it stated.
According to Dr Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, the RRT will stay for 14 days, with the possibility of an extension.
Idris stressed the significance of personal safety and directed all team members to closely adhere to infection prevention and control standards throughout the response operation.
“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,” he stated.
