Meningitis Outbreak Claims 109 Lives In Brazilian State

A meningitis epidemic which was reported in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia has claimed about 109 lives so far, since the start of the year.

And Brazil's superstar singer Ivete Sangalo revealed that she had contracted viral meningitis, a mild form of the disease, press reports said.

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.

The 39-year-old, best-selling singer, who hails from Bahia, reportedly left hospital after undergoing treatment.

But authorities said 109 people, most of whom contracted cerebro-spinal meningitis, have died since January.

The mortality rate for cerebro-spinal meningitis, characterized by an inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord, is around eight to 10 percent of cases.

Hib Vaccine - Types, Dosage Schedule, Contraindications and Side Effects
The Hib vaccine protects children against infections like meningitis and pneumonia that are caused by the Haemophilus influenzae type b bacterium.

A total of 1,670 people have been hit by bacterial meningitis, the most serious form of the disease, officials said.

In the tourist resort of Costa do Sauipe, dozens of tourists have canceled their bookings as a result of the epidemic, hotel staff told the media.

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Protect your child from various deadly diseases by giving the vaccinations at the right age. This tool helps you schedule the vaccinations of your child.

Source-AFP

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