The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina States in response to the ongoing outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM). This deployment comes after a significant increase in suspected cases reported from these states. As of March 26, 2025, a total of 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths have been reported across 22 states, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 9.2 percent.
The 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.
According to Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of NCDC, “The RRTs will be in the affected states for 14 days, with the possibility of extension if needed.” Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of personal safety and instructed all team members to strictly observe infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols throughout the response effort. The deployed teams comprise multisectoral and interdisciplinary experts, including specialists in case management and lumbar puncture techniques. They are working closely with the state health authorities to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
The 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 has a history of responding quickly to outbreaks, thanks to its Revolving Outbreak Investigation Fund (ROIF), which allows for the rapid release of funds to investigate and control infectious outbreaks .
This fund has been instrumental in reducing the time it takes for the NCDC to respond to outbreaks. 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.
