Delta State has recorded its first case of the rampaging
Cerebrospinal Meningitis, which has so far killed about 438 persons across
the country.
Doctors at the Central Hospital, Warri, disclosed this today
(Tuesday) in Warri South Local Government Area of the state, sparking fears
among residents.
A Consultant Physician at the Warri Central Hospital, Dr.
Ngozi Chukwubeni, told journalists in Warri that the female patient was
diagnosed of classical symptoms of meningitis, headache, vomiting, neck pain
and stiffness.
According to Chukwubeni said, “We have a female patient. She
came with classical symptoms of meningitis: headache, vomiting, neck pain and
stiffness. There was no history of recent travel to the meningitis belt, or
exposure.
“We did a dumber puncture. We made an assessment, clinical
features and laboratory investigations when you are keeping with spinal
meningitis. We placed her on antibiotics. The patient is doing very well.”
She said the case has been reported with the state ministry
of health for appropriate action, while taking necessary action to halt further
spread of the disease to other patients within the hospital.
“There is full cooperation. We cannot work in isolation. We
work with government. This case has been reported. Action plan will be taken at
the state level. We on our own are taking necessary measures to prevent further
occurrence and also protect our staff from getting infected by applying basic
precautionary measures,” Dr. Chukwubeni added.
On his part, a Consultant Gynecologist, Dr. Stanley Nnoli,
advised parents in Warri and its environs to be very observant and seek proper
medical attention instead of personal medication.
By Ovie Okpare, Warri
