Meningitis has affected 16 states in
Nigeria and over 300 people have lost their
lives to this outbreak which started in
Zamfara, Northern Nigeria.
It is, therefore,
paramount for you
to protect yourself and
your family from this outbreak.
In line with
this, Jumia Travel, the leading online travel
agency, shares some of these practices.
Wash your hands
This is the ultimate way you can protect
yourself from any diseases including
meningitis. After we tackled Ebola, some
Nigerians have abandoned washing their
hands and the use sanitizers. So,
whenever you go to the toilet, you should
never forget to wash your hands and
sanitise it.
Be healthy
Protect your immune system by getting
enough rest, exercising and eating a
balanced diet containing a lot of fruits,
and vegetables.
Practice Good Hygiene
If you share spoons, drinks, foods, and
toothbrushes with your friend, you have to
stop immediately. This is one of the ways
to spread meningitis. This is much more
important for children.
Cover your mouth and nose
When you cough or sneeze, ensure that
you cover your mouth and nose.
Be conscious of what you eat if you are
pregnant
Pregnant women are also susceptible to
meningitis because they are carrying a
baby. They should be conscious of what
they eat and they should also take care of
themselves. You do want to protect
yourself and your baby.
Immunization
If you have babies or infants who are yet
to be immunised, this is perhaps the best
time for you to take them to the hospital
to immunise them against infant diseases.
Signs and Symptoms
Meningitis is an inflammation of the
meninges. The meninges are the three
membranes that cover the brain and
spinal cord. Meningitis can occur when
fluid surrounding the meninges becomes
infected.
The possible signs and
symptoms of meningitis include Sudden
high fever, stiff neck, severe headache
that seems different than normal,
headache with nausea or vomiting,
confusion or difficulty concentrating,
Seizures, sleepiness or difficulty waking,
skin rash, sensitivity to light, and lack of
appetite or thirst.