CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS

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