Use this page to access key information about Meningitis Meningococcal and Meningitis treatment abroad.
- Find generic information about Meningitis, its causes and where it’s commonly found.
- Gleam more specific information about Meningitis prevention and Meningitis symptoms.
- Also find information in regards to how Meningitis spreads and it’s danger rating.
- Issues affecting Meningitis control are also covered in a comprehensive guide.
- Click here for Meningitis Vaccine details
Meningitis
What is it?
Meningococcal meningitis is an aggressive, dangerous disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis – carried by up to 20% of the population.
Meningococcal group C causes sporadic infection in the UK, while group B causes a similar pattern of infection worldwide, but it is groups A and w135 that are most dangerous, causing epidemics in Africa and Saudi Arabia, and posing a threat to travellers.
What does it do?
The infection may cause the classic meningitis symptoms of headache, stiff neck and sensitivity to light, as well as a high fever. In severe cases, the disease may skip these symptoms and rapidly invade the bloodstream – causing a non-blanching rash, extreme drowsiness or illness and a rapid progression to death. Early recognition and treatment are essential.
Where is it?
The infection mainly occurs in the meningitis belt, which runs through sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east. Epidemics mainly occur in the dry season, from December to June, and the area affected can spread southwards to Central and East Africa. Epidemics can also occur elsewhere, such as in India or occasionally during the Haj in Saudi Arabia.
Can it be treated?
For effective meningitis treatment abroad, Intravenous antibiotics at high doses are required along with good intensive care support. Often the former is available without the latter.
Is Meningitis prevention possible?
Immunisation is essential for everyone visiting the meningitis belt in the dry season, and for pilgrims on the Haj.
Danger rating: 8/10
