By CrossRiverWatch Admin
With the recent outbreak of Cerebral Spinal Meningitis (CSM) which has affected 2,524 people with 348 deaths across the country, the Cross River State Government through its Ministry of Health has called on citizens and residents to take precautionary measures to curb the spread as the state government is doing its best in line with the federal government to put an end to the spread.
A statement signed by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Inyang Asibong and made available to CrossRiverWatch says, though no case of the illness has been recorded in the state, it is important for residents to be cautious.
The statement described Cerebral Spinal Meningitis (CSM) as “an acute inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord (meninges); it is most often caused by the bacteria, Neisseria meningitides.
“Under certain environmental conditions such as dry weather, dusty winds, high temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night, especially during harmattan season, the virulence of these otherwise naturally existing microorganisms increases, causing sporadic outbreaks of CSM.
“People living in overcrowded conditions, poorly ventilated houses and generally poor sanitary conditions are very vulnerable to respiratory infections, and this encourages the growth and survival of the bacteria.
“Incubation periods vary from 2 to 10 days with symptoms such as but not limited to stiff neck, high fever, rash, headache, vomiting, and confusion while early treatment can help prevent serious long-term consequences such as deafness, blindness, epileptic seizures and brain damage.
“By this we are all advised to increase our personal hygiene especially our hands, avoid overcrowded places, avoid direct contact with people coughing or sneezing, allow adequate ventilation in our houses, seek immediate medical help when you notice any of the symptoms of CSM.” Dr. Asibong said.
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