The Yobe Government has refuted claims of a mysterious ailment responsible for the deaths of 200 youths in Potiskum and Nangere over the past fortnight. Dr. Mohammed Gana, the Commissioner for Health, addressed the media on Monday in Damaturu, stating that upon receiving the reports, the ministry promptly launched a comprehensive investigation.
Gana explained that the state government mobilized a team of epidemiologists, health experts, primary healthcare directors, and facility managers to conduct thorough investigations in the affected areas. However, their findings revealed no evidence to substantiate the reported deaths.
Highlighting the state’s ongoing efforts to combat Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), Gana emphasized the establishment of a robust network comprising over 200 community health influencers, 78 active case search teams, and more than 1,000 volunteer community mobilizers, supported by UNICEF.
“In light of our extensive infrastructure dedicated to conducting active case searches across the state, it is highly improbable for any significant health event to evade detection,” Gana stated. “We firmly assert that these reports are unfounded.”
The Commissioner urged the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and assured them of the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health.