In response to a mysterious illness affecting communities in Sokoto and Zamfara, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) convened an emergency meeting with health commissioners from the three states. The gathering aimed to address the unknown disease and implement measures to contain its spread.
NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris met with health commissioners from Sokoto and Kaduna on April 16, 2024, and also held a phone conference with Zamfara’s health commissioner. The commissioners shared updates on their response efforts and discussed strategies to mitigate the suspected heavy metal poisoning, potentially linked to mining activities.
An investigation into the strange illness in six wards of Sokoto State was launched on April 9, followed by the deployment of a National Rapid Response Team to collaborate with the Sokoto State Ministry of Health. Initial assessments ruled out infectious causes, leading to further testing that revealed varying levels of lead and chromium among affected individuals, indicating possible heavy metal contamination from industrial activities.
As of the latest report, 196 suspected cases with seven deaths have been recorded across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Ilella local government areas of Sokoto State. Healthcare workers and affected communities have been urged to report symptoms such as fever, abdominal swelling, pain, vomiting, and weight loss to the nearest health facility or call the NCDC toll-free line.
A National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) was deployed by the NCDC to collaborate with the State Ministry of Health for investigation. Affected children received treatment at the Specialist Hospital Sokoto, while residents were educated on the illness’ dangers and advised to report cases promptly.
