Meningitis outbreak has killed at least 140 people have died in six northern states of Nigeria. More than 80 of the deaths occurred in Zamfara state.  


Confirming the news, a director at Nigeria's centre for disease control, Dr Nasiru Sani Gwarzol, said the death toll was expected to rise.

More than 1,000 people have been infected.

Dr Gwarzol said the disease is spreading, with fears that it could get out of control if it reaches overcrowded areas like refugee camps and prisons.

He said the authorities are taking all necessary measures to rend the outbreak.