The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed the outbreak of a disease of unknown origin in Sokoto state, with a total of 164 suspected cases identified in six wards of Isa local government area.
Dr Jide Idris, the director general of the agency, stated, “Most of these cases are children aged 4 – 13 years, including some adults. The patients came from different wards and settlements across the LGA.”
The NCDC was notified by the Sokoto State Ministry of Health on March 21, 2024, of reported cases of children presenting with symptoms including abdominal distension, fever, vomiting, and weight loss. Idris also mentioned that four deaths have been recorded amongst the suspected cases.
The NCDC deployed a National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) to work with the State Ministry of Health to further investigate and respond to the incident.
Dr Idris revealed that initial clinical assessment and investigations of the cases admitted at the teaching hospital ruled out an infectious origin, leading to the need for heavy metal testing. He stated, “Results of the initial test for heavy metals for the index and first few suspected cases revealed different blood levels of lead (Pb) and Chromium (Cr).”
Furthermore, Dr Idris urged members of the affected and nearby communities to be vigilant and report anyone presenting with the stated symptoms to the nearest health facilities or call the NCDC toll-free line. He emphasized the importance of early detection and response to prevent further spread of the disease.
“The outbreak has raised concerns among health officials and the local community. With the cause of the disease still unknown, efforts are underway to conduct further tests to determine the exact nature of the illness. The NCDC is working closely with the State Ministry of Health to provide care for the affected individuals and prevent the spread of the disease.”
