It is a tragic incident that has occurred in Udubo village in the Gamawa local government area in Bauchi state, where six Almajiri pupils have lost their lives due to a suspected meningitis outbreak.
The Chairman of the caretaker committee of the local government, Nasiru Bakura, confirmed the deaths to journalists on Friday.
Although there were reports on social media that about 15 people have died from the suspected outbreak, Bakura clarified that the six pupils died in three different Tsangaya schools, all located in Udubo town of Gamawa local government area.
It is quite alarming that the affected Tsangaya schools are mostly congested by Almajiri pupils, exacerbating the situation.
Health workers at both the local and state levels are actively managing the outbreak, with drugs procured to treat affected patients.
However, it is important to note that meningitis is a serious infectious disease that can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, leading to severe complications such as deafness, blindness, paralysis, and even death if not treated promptly.
According to Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed Musa, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, the disease is transmitted through direct contact with infected persons’ saliva or mucus, as well as inhaling droplets. As such, members of the public are advised to avoid overcrowded areas, especially during this outbreak, as a precautionary measure.
It is also essential to know that meningitis is a vaccine-preventable disease, and parents should ensure that their children are vaccinated to be immunized against it. Dr. Musa clarified that meningitis is not connected to witchcraft and patients should consult health experts when symptoms like high fever occur.
The Bauchi State Government is working hard to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.
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