Meningitis Epidemic in Niger Infects 697 People, Claims 75 Lives So Far

Meningitis is a condition that causes an inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It is highly contagious and can cause death within hours. The World Health Organization stated that Niger, one of the world’s poorest countries, is frequently prone to meningitis epidemics because of its position in the ’meningitis belt’ that stretches from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east. A meningitis epidemic that broke out in January 2015 in Niger has killed 75 people so far and has infected 697 people.

Mano Aghali, the health minister, said, "The total number of nationwide cases currently stand at 697. More than half of the deaths have occurred in the capital Niamey but the epidemic has spread to all regions of the country, with the exception of southeastern Diffa near the Nigerian border. A previous report showed that the epidemic had affected 345 people between January 1 and March 29, with 45 fatalities. A vaccination campaign will begin next week in the most affected zones."

Meningitis - Causes - Symptoms - Diagnosis - Treatment - FAQs
Meninges are the three layers of membrane that cover the brain and infection of the cerebrospinal fluid between them causes meningitis the disease of the meninges.

Health authorities have distributed 13,500 doses of the vaccine.

Source-Medindia

Meningitis Epidemic in Niger Infects 345, Claims 45 Lives Since January 2015
As one of world's poorest countries, Niger has reported some 345 cases of meningitis, including 45 fatalities from January 1 to March 29, 2015.

Nasal Drops may Help Prevent Meningitis
New findings about nasal drops, which can prevent the deadly disease meningitis, could lead to a new approach that could help suppress meningitis outbreaks.

Scientists Provide New Insights into Why Teens Carry Meningitis-Causing Bacteria
Scientists at University of York have shed new light on why teenagers and young adults are particularly susceptible to meningitis and septicaemia.