Nigeria has received over 1.2 million doses of a new meningitis vaccine in response to a deadly outbreak sweeping the country.
The outbreak has killed more than 70 people and infected over 800 across 23 of Nigeria’s 36 states, according to UNICEF.
With a population of 220 million, Nigeria lies in the African Meningitis Belt, a region prone to recurring, deadly meningitis epidemics.
The disease inflames the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord and can be triggered by viral, bacterial, or fungal pathogens.
Symptoms include fever, headache, and stiff neck, but bacterial meningitis can rapidly lead to fatal blood poisoning.
In a statement, Nigeria’s health minister Muhammad Ali Pate called the vaccine delivery “a crucial milestone” in halting the spread.
The Men5CV vaccine provides protection against five major strains of the meningococcal bacteria—A, C, W, Y, and X—in a single shot.
UNICEF, working with vaccine suppliers, facilitated the shipment and pledged continued support in Nigeria’s public health efforts.
Health workers have begun distributing the vaccine to the worst-hit areas, where fear and urgency grip local communities.
Authorities are urging citizens to remain alert and seek medical help immediately at the first signs of infection.
The government has also launched awareness campaigns to improve understanding of the disease and boost vaccine acceptance.
Nigeria’s quick response highlights growing regional efforts to combat recurring health threats with modern medical tools.
With timely intervention and widespread immunization, officials hope to contain the outbreak and prevent future loss of life.Nigeria steps up meningitis response with new vaccine shipment