This study aimed at characterising the spatiotemporal pattern of
meningitis in Nigeria, in order to detect vulnerable areas. Stratified sampling
was deployed in research inquiry based on the following variables: geographic
location; population density; poverty status; and adult literacy level in
accordance to diseases incidence rate. Population-based ratios were then
computed for each stratum for the identification of high risk areas. Global
Moran’s Index spatial autocorrelation technique was additionally used to
investigate the extent to which neighbouring values of incidence rate are
correlated and to determine meningitis demographic risk factors. A significant
spatial clustering of meningitis incidence rate has been found in northern
Nigeria, with less or no clustering in the southern part of the country. A
significant correlation of disease, with geographical location and poverty was
perceived. The study commends that improving the socioeconomic status of the
affected population may reduce the incidents of meningitis in the high risk
area in Nigeria.
Cite this paper
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