NCDC Confirms Spread of Sokoto Strange Disease to Kaduna, 196 Suspected Cases and 7 Deaths Reported

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has verified the expansion of a strange disease from Sokoto to Kaduna state, with 196 suspected cases and 7 deaths reported across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Ilella Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sokoto since March 21, 2024. The illness is suspected to be heavy metal poisoning possibly linked to mining activities in the region.

NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris convened an urgent meeting with the Commissioners for Health from Sokoto and Kaduna states to discuss the current situation, provide updates on response efforts, and agree on further measures to contain and mitigate the impact of the illness. "We are working with other agencies to ascertain the correct diagnosis of the illness, and the results are expected to be available the next day," said Dr. Idris.

Initial blood sample analysis has revealed varying levels of lead and chromium among the affected individuals, primarily children aged 4 to 13 and some adults. Symptoms of the disease include abdominal distension, fever, vomiting, and weight loss. The Sokoto State government and healthcare workers are striving to restrict the spread and treat the affected individuals, who are now responding to treatment.

Why this matters: The spread of this strange disease from Sokoto to Kaduna raises concerns about the potential health risks associated with mining activities in the region. It underscores the importance of regulating these activities and enforcing safety standards to prevent such outbreaks and protect public health.

The NCDC has deployed a National Rapid Response Team to investigate the matter and collaborate with the Sokoto State Ministry of Health to address the incidents. Another team will be sent to Zamfara state this week to assess the situation and provide support, following reports of similar cases in the state. The NCDC has urged affected and nearby communities, including in Kaduna state, to report any symptoms to the nearest health facility or call the NCDC toll-free line. Healthcare workers have also been advised to alert relevant authorities of any suspected cases.

Dr. Idris assured that the search for the causative factors continues, and a standard laboratory will be established in Sokoto State to aid the investigation. The NCDC emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation from all stakeholders to identify the illness, implement effective containment measures, and prevent further outbreaks.

Key Takeaways

• Strange disease spreads from Sokoto to Kaduna, with 196 cases and 7 deaths.
• NCDC suspects heavy metal poisoning linked to mining activities in the region.
• NCDC convenes emergency meeting with state health commissioners to coordinate response.
• Initial blood tests show elevated lead and chromium levels in affected individuals.
• NCDC deploys teams to investigate, contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.