Outbreaks in Ethiopia have been recorded since 1935, and the World Health Organization reports that a major outbreak has been anticipated for 1999-2000. The regions of Amhara, Gambella and Tigray experienced an increase in the number of cases reported in March and April of 2000. Meningococcal meningitis is an infection of the fluid and membranes covering a person's brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis and is transmitted by tiny droplets of mucus from the nose and throat of infected persons. Direct contact with respiratory and throat secretions through coughing, sneezing and kissing spreads the infection.
Incidence occurs most frequently in areas of poverty and overcrowded living conditions.
The very young have the highest risk of disease. Because of the relative ease of transmission in close quarters and the presence of asymptomatic carriers, travel and migration can hasten the spread of meningitis within a country and among countries. Serogroups W135, X, Y and Z are disease-producing as well. Prompt treatment is necessary. There is no vaccine against the meningococcal B type.