Dry Months: NCDC Warns Against Risk Of Cerebrospinal Meningitis

As the dry months gradually set in, Nigerians have been warned about the ongoing risk of contracting Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM).

The warning came by a public alert issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) which adds that the CSM risks are higher in states within the African meningitis belt.

According to the centre, Cerebrospinal Meningitis occurs more frequently between December and April, when dry, dusty conditions, overcrowding, and poor ventilation increase the risk of transmission.

Urging all Nigerians to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures, NCDC added that surveillance and response activities remain ongoing nationwide.

According to it, while laboratory testing is being conducted at the state level while national laboratory capacity is being strengthened.

What is Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM)?

According to the advisory dated 4 March 2026, Cerebrospinal meningitis is a serious infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

It is most commonly caused by bacteria, particularly Neisseria meningitidis.

“Bacterial meningitis can progress rapidly and may be fatal within hours if untreated. However, early

diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment significantly improve survival and reduce complications.

CSM spreads through respiratory droplets during close contact, especially in overcrowded or poorly

ventilated environments.

Symptoms to Watch For

As early recognition and treatment save lives, common symptoms include:

• Sudden high fever
• Severe headache

• Neck stiffness

Other symptoms may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion or altered consciousness
• Seizures

In infants and young children:

• Bulging soft spot on the head
• Irritability
• Refusal to feed
• Excessive sleepiness

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Although children and young adults are commonly affected, meningitis can occur in people of all ages.

Fever and headache during the dry season should not automatically be assumed to be malaria. Seek

immediate medical evaluation.

The directory signed by Director General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Jide Idris, lists other important information to note, as follows:

Who Is Most at Risk?

• Children and young adults
• People living in overcrowded settings
• Individuals in dry, dusty environments
• Persons with weakened immune systems

Schools, boarding facilities, universities, religious centres, IDP camps, correctional facilities (prisons)

and other crowded settings should ensure adequate ventilation and prompt reporting of suspected cases.

What the Public Should Do

1. Seek Care Early

– Do not self-medicate

– Do not rely on herbal remedies

– Immediate antibiotic treatment at a health facility is essential

– Report promptly to the nearest health facility if symptoms develop

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2. Reduce Transmission Risk

– Avoid overcrowding where possible

– Ensure good ventilation in homes and gathering places

– Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing

– Avoid sharing drinking cups and utensils

3. Vaccination

– Ensure eligible individuals receive meningitis vaccination as advised

– Participate in state-led reactive vaccination campaigns

– Meningitis vaccines are safe and remain one of the most effective prevention measures

NCDC Preparedness and Response

When to Seek Emergency Care Immediately visit a health facility if:

• Fever is accompanied by neck stiffness
• There is confusion, seizures, or altered consciousness
• Symptoms worsen rapidly