A recent outbreak of meningitis in Nigeria’s Kebbi state has resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people, according to local health officials.
The outbreak, which has been confirmed in three local government areas, has also led to 248 suspected cases being reported.
Meningitis, an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by viral or bacterial infections.
It spreads mainly through close contact, including kisses, sneezes, and coughs.
In response to the outbreak, the Kebbi state government has distributed medication to affected areas and established isolation centers with the support of Doctors Without Borders (MSF).
Neighboring Sokoto state has also issued a health warning following confirmation of an outbreak.
Nigeria has been working to combat meningitis, and last year became the first country to roll out the new Men5C vaccine, which protects against five strains of the meningococcus bacteria.
