There are many forms of meningitis which can harm humans. This particular one is caused by a bacteria and commonly occurs in some of the Sub-Saharan African countries and in Nepal. It may also be found in parts of Asia and South America. Outbreaks and individual cases are also reported from many other countries.
Patients usually develop a bruising skin reaction, fever and headaches.
Main regions of the world affected include the Sub-Saharan belt across Central Africa and regions of Nepal. Meningococcal meningitis occurs globally. It shows an endemic pattern in temperate climates, causing a steady number of sporadic cases or small clusters with seasonal increase in the winter period. Some endemic countries have reported an increasing annual number of cases over the last decade. A different pattern, with epidemics recurring during 2-3 consecutive years has been observed in other parts of the world.