At least 24 residents of Bida, the capital of Bida Local Government Area in Niger State, have been hospitalized due to an outbreak of an unidentified illness.
Reports indicate that 20 of the affected individuals have since been discharged after receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre and Umaru Sanda Ndayako General Hospital in Bida. The illness, characterized by sudden collapses and loss of communication, has caused significant alarm in the community.
Residents have described a disturbing trend where healthy individuals suddenly collapse, leading to fears of a potential epidemic. Symptoms reported include prolonged unconsciousness, fever, body weakness, and paralysis. One resident recounted a dramatic incident where a couple was found incapacitated overnight, alerted only by their crying infant.
The outbreak has affected various areas within Bida, including Laruta and Ekoko, with sources indicating that nearly 50 people may have been impacted.
Dr. Bello Tukur, the Niger State Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, stated that initial investigations suggest the illness may be linked to untreated severe malaria and typhoid fever. He confirmed that no fatalities have been reported and outlined ongoing efforts to assess the situation and provide necessary care.
The state government has urged residents to maintain good hygiene and has initiated active case searches in the affected areas. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has also been notified, and blood samples are being analyzed to determine the exact nature of the illness.
