NCDC Addresses Mysterious Illness in Sokoto: Heavy Metal Poisoning Suspected

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has taken swift action to address a mysterious illness that has claimed eight lives out of 208 suspected cases in Sokoto.

The outbreak, which has affected communities in Sokoto and Zamfara states, has prompted an emergency meeting with the Commissioners for Health from the affected regions.

Dr. Jide Idris, the NCDC Director-General, announced that the meeting, held on April 16, 2024, aimed to discuss further measures to contain and mitigate the suspected disease, which is linked to heavy metal poisoning from mining activities.

Initial clinical assessments and investigations ruled out an infectious origin, leading to tests revealing varying blood levels of lead and chromium among the affected individuals.

As the situation continues to unfold, the NCDC has deployed a National Rapid Response Team to collaborate with the Sokoto State Ministry of Health to address the incidents.

The agency has urged healthcare workers and affected communities to report any symptoms, including fever, abdominal swelling and pain, vomiting, and weight loss, to the nearest health facility or call NCDC’s toll-free line.

Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of regulating mining activities and enforcing standards to prevent future occurrences of this nature.

The NCDC remains committed to providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.

The mysterious illness has primarily afflicted children, aged four to 13, along with some adults, and manifests with symptoms such as abdominal distension, fever, vomiting, and weight loss.

The NCDC and the Sokoto State Government have collected samples for laboratory testing to determine the cause of the disease.

As the investigation progresses, the NCDC’s proactive measures and collaboration with state health authorities demonstrate a strong commitment to addressing the outbreak and protecting public health.

The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental health and the need for strict regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.