BY ANKELI EMMANUEL, Sokoto

Over 300 cases of suspected meningitis have been recorded in Sokoto State, Commissioner of Health Dr Faruku Wurno has confirmed. 

The Commissioner while registering deep concern over the development at a state high level sensitization campaign held at Sokoto north Secretariat, however assured that measures are being taken to curb the spread of the epidemic. 

Dr Farukun who said they are deeply concerned about the protection of public health, said, “”over 300 people had contracted meningitis in recent weeks, only 16 are still receiving treatment across affected local governments, with the majority already discharged”

Addressing participants at the awareness campaign meeting organized by the State Ward Development Committee (WDC) Forum in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency. Dr. Muhammad Marnona and Dr. Larai Tambuwal, urged residents to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility upon noticing key signs of meningitis which are symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, or neck stiffness

Representatives from UNICEF, Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), and the Vice Chancellor of SAISA University of Medical Sciences and Technology, Prof. Abdullahi Mainasara, were also present to support the campaign.

In goodwill messages, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by the District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar Jabbi, and local leaders commended Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu for prioritizing health in the state.

WDC Chairman, Comrade Bala Gadanga Sokoto, described the campaign as timely and crucial, especially in the wake of the recent spike in cases across various local governments.

The campaign marks the first of its kind and reflects the state’s renewed commitment to proactive public health education and disease prevention.