The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has held an emergency meeting with commissioners for health in Sokoto and Kaduna over a strange illness spreading across Sokoto and Zamfara states.

Giving an update on the meeting, Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC said the meeting was held to initiate strategies in unravelling the cause of the illness as well as containing and mitigating its impact.

Nearby communities in Kaduna have been asked to report any symptoms including fever, abdominal swelling and pain, vomiting, and weight loss to the nearest health facility or call NCDC toll free line (6232).

He said;

“The Honourable Commissioners (Hajiya Asabe Balarabe, Dr. Aisha Anka and Hajiya Umma Ahmed) discussed the current situation, provided updates on response efforts, and agreed with the DG of NCDC on further measures to contain and mitigate the impact of the illness suspected to be heavy metal poisoning possibly linked to mining activities.

“As of today, a total of 196 suspected cases of the unknown illness with seven (7) deaths have been reported across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Ilella Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Sokoto State.

“Results of the analyses on the various samples sent to the different sister laboratories including NIPRID, NAFDAC and NIMR are being awaited.

“Following reports of similar cases in Zamfara state, another National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) will be deployed this week to assess the situation and provide support to the state.

“Healthcare workers are urged to report any suspected cases to LGA/State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer or State Epidemiologist.”