#Meningitis: Nigerians should avoid self-medication —Sultan

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad, has urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication as part of measures to tame the meningitis epidemic.

The Sultan said this in a statement signed by the Emir of Argungu, in Kebbi State, Alhaji Samaila Mera, and issued to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto, on Tuesday.

“In the interim, because of the dynamic nature of the outbreak, the Sultan is calling on parents and caregivers to ensure that their children sleep in clean, well ventilated abodes and avoid overcrowding.

“They should also report all suspected cases immediately to the nearest health facility.

“The Sultan is also calling on all traditional and religious leaders to support all measures taken or recommended to be taken by the government and health officials.

“They should also enhance surveillance for cases in their areas of administration and report any suspected case to the nearest health outpost,” the statement read in part.

The statement further urged residents to support government officials working in any capacity, to bring an end to the outbreak.

It also urged the general public to pray to God for the speedy interruption and eradication of the disease from the country.