Since the outbreak began in March 2000, there have been 855 cases and 19 deaths reported in the city. People under 30 years of age are most affected. However, there have been no major outbreaks reported in Addis Ababa since 1989. Mass immunization in the capital is underway with 1,000,000 people vaccinated as of August 17, 2000.
Meningococcal meningitis occurs sporadically worldwide and flares into epidemics in endemic areas.
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.