The recent outbreak of cerebro-spinal meningitis in 5 states
has once again plunged Nigerians into another episode of panic barely 3 year
after the West African Ebola virus epidemic (2013–2016).
Like Ebola, Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis is a disease mainly of viral
origin affecting the central nervous system, however can be caused by Bacteria,
Fungus and non-infectious agents like chemicals, drugs and cancers.
The recent outbreak is caused by a bacteria known as
Neisseria Meningitis. Unlike with previous cases caused by Neisseria Meningitides
Type A, the most common serotype isolated in the latest epidemic is Neisseria
meningitides ‘serotype C’ (Nm C).
Already 336 cases of Deaths have been reported since the
Outbreak. A total of 2,997 suspected cases have been reported in 16 States
including FCT, of which 146 have been laboratory-confirmed.
Different theories has been speculated as to the reason for
the recent outbreak of the new serotype including the recent hypothesis by the
Zamfara State Governor attributing it to punishment from God.
The good news is Meningitis is both preventable and treatable.
MODE OF TRANSMISSION
·
Transmission
is mainly through aerosol from person-to-person
·
Infected
people or carriers spread the bacteria by coughing or sneezing while in close
contact with others, who then breathe in the bacteria.
·
Transmission
can also occur through exchange of Nasopharyngeal or Oral secretion while in
close contact or during kissing.
RISK FACTORS FOR THE SPREAD OF
MENINGITIS
- Unhygienic Life-Style
- Staying in an Overcrowded and poorly ventilated area
- Close and prolonged contact with infected person
- Lack of Vaccination
Sharing Utensils,
Cups and toothbrush
Note: One in
every 10 people carry the bacteria in their Nostril and throat without showing
any sign and symptoms
SIGN AND SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of
meningitis resembles that of a flu, however more severe
The major symptoms
include sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck
Others are: poor
appetite, nausea and vomiting, sleepiness, fatigue, seizures, lassitude, confusion,
skin rash, sensitivity to light and coma may occur in severe cases
In new born;
in addition to the fever there might be irritability, excessive crying, poor
feeding, abnormal body posture and bulging of the soft part on the baby’s head
(fontanelle)
TREATMENT
·
Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis
is Manageable with readily available medications
·
Report
to the clinic immediately for immediate proper diagnosis and prompt treatment
PREVENTIVE TIPS
- Improve personal hygiene including proper and regular hand washing using soap under a running tap
- Avoid touching staircase railing as much as possible
- Avoid staying in an overcrowded place
- Ensure proper ventilation in your houses and work-place
- People should be educated to cough and sneeze into elbow joint/sleeves
- Avoid prolonged contact with known cases
- Proper disposal of respiratory and throat secretions
- Reduce hand shaking, kissing, and sharing of utensils.
- Avoid mouth-mouth resuscitation
- Prompt Vaccination with meningococcal vaccines
- Hand sanitization in the absence of soap and running water
NOTE: Like
Bisi Alimi rightly said, Palm Oil, Anointing Oil, Bitter Kola and Salt water
are not alternative to treatment and prevention of Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis
