48 cases and 6 deaths were reported in the Alamata district from February 7 to March 9. The number of cases reportedly fell to low levels by the middle of March. More than 70,000 Ethiopians were vaccinated against Meningitis since the outbreaks began. Meningococcal Meningitis is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis which is spread between humans through airborne droplets and nasal and oral fluids. The disease can be very serious and can cause death.
Travelers are generally at low risk of acquiring the disease unless they enter an epidemic area.
The available vaccination is effective for certain forms of the bacteria, including Serotypes A and C, which are the most common cause of epidemic disease in this part of Africa. All travelers should discuss the vaccination with a qualified travel health professional prior to leaving home. The Cholera epidemic in Madagascar, previously noted in HTH News, appears to be spreading. Six provinces are now affected. Highway To Health, Inc.