Nigeria has become the first country worldwide to introduce a cutting-edge meningitis vaccine, Men5CV, as recommended by the World Health Organization.

“This is a significant milestone, especially for nations like Nigeria where multiple strains of meningococcus bacteria pose a threat,” stated a WHO spokesperson.

The innovative vaccine, funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, offers protection against five strains of the meningococcus bacteria (A, C, W, Y, and X), which cause meningitis and blood poisoning. Unlike previous vaccines, Men5CV provides broader coverage against these deadly strains in a single shot.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasized the transformative potential of the new vaccine, stating, “Meningitis is a formidable adversary, but this breakthrough vaccine has the power to change the course of the disease, preventing future outbreaks and saving countless lives.”

Nigeria’s initiative is particularly crucial following recent meningitis outbreaks, notably in northern states like Jigawa, Bauchi, and Yobe. Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate of the Nigerian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare highlighted the importance of the vaccine in curbing outbreaks and advancing towards elimination.

He expressed gratitude for community support during the vaccination campaign, which coincided with the fasting period, and commended local leaders for their involvement.

The development of Men5CV was the result of a 13-year partnership between PATH and the Serum Institute of India, with critical financing from the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office.

Nigeria’s proactive stance against meningitis is vital, considering its location in the African Meningitis Belt, where meningitis outbreaks are prevalent. Last year witnessed a 50% surge in reported cases across Africa, with Nigeria experiencing a significant outbreak of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C.

To combat this, a vaccination campaign targeted over one million individuals aged 1-29 years. Meningitis, characterized by inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, is a severe infection with various causes, including bacterial strains that can lead to rapid disability or death.