Meningitis, measles kill over 100 in Jigawa

Outbreak of meningitis and measles in seven local councils of Jigawa State has claimed over 100 lives. The Guardian learnt that the affected councils recorded 57 cases of meningitis and 72 cases of measles.

Investigations conducted in the area revealed that the epidemic covered, at least, six local councils and claimed over 100 lives, including children below five years old.

Some communities complained that since the outbreak about a month ago, there was poor response from state officials, in terms of drafting medical personnel and medication for prompt response in the affected localities.

But the acting Commissioner for Health, Dr. Salisu Muazu, said: “Upon receipt of reports of the deadly illness, we have acted promptly in both logistics and medication. I took it upon myself to draft competent medical personnel to the worst hit areas in providing all necessary medical attention to save human lives.”

He debunked the notion that his ministry was playing down on the situation as unfounded, stressing that “the ministry does not play with issues affecting human lives.”

Lamenting the outbreak, the Bulama of an affected community in Gumel Local Council, Yusuf Ahmad, said: “We are afraid of these deadly diseases, should state health official’s continue the ‘I don’t care’ attitude.”

Reports indicate that most of the affected areas were lacking health facilities, as one may walk about 10 to 15 kilometres before noticing a clinic.