Dry Season Raises Meningitis Risk as NCDC Intensifies Nationwide Surveillance
Koko Maxwella 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says it has intensified surveillance and response measures across the country as the dry season increases the risk of cerebrospinal meningitis outbreaks.
Director-General Dr. Jide Idris disclosed this in a public health advisory issued on Friday, warning that Nigeria has entered a high-risk period for meningitis transmission.
He explained that outbreaks commonly occur between December and April in countries within Africa’s meningitis belt due to harsh climatic conditions.
“Dry, dusty weather, overcrowded environments and poor ventilation during this period significantly increase the likelihood of infection,” Idris said.
According to him, the agency has strengthened monitoring systems across states while laboratory testing for suspected cases continues nationwide.
Idris noted that cerebrospinal meningitis is a severe infection affecting the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord and is most commonly caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis.
“The disease spreads through respiratory droplets during close contact, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated environments,” he explained.
He warned that bacterial meningitis can progress rapidly and may become fatal within hours if untreated.
However, Idris stressed that early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment significantly improve survival chances.
He urged Nigerians to seek immediate medical care if they experience symptoms such as sudden high fever, severe headache and neck stiffness.
“Fever and headache during the dry season should not automatically be assumed to be malaria,” he cautioned.
Idris also emphasised that vaccination remains one of the most effective preventive measures and encouraged eligible individuals to participate in state immunisation campaigns.
According to NCDC data, Nigeria recorded 4,915 suspected meningitis cases and 361 deaths across 24 states during the 2023–2024 season.
During the 2022–2023 season, about 2,765 suspected cases and 190 deaths were reported nationwide.
About the Author
Korede Abdullah 
Otamere Gladness 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 