An update on the meningitis outbreak which is ongoing in Banalia territory (Kisangani district) since late July has the case count at 777 cases and 167 deaths, with serogroup W identified from 12 tests performed. In related news, a WHO press release this week announced a new meningitis strategy which aims ‘to eliminate epidemics of bacterial meningitis – the most deadly form of the disease – and to reduce deaths by 70% and halve the number of cases’ by 2030. While outbreaks of meningitis occur throughout the globe, the burden is greatest in Africa where ‘more than half a billion Africans are at risk of seasonal meningitis outbreaks’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Meningococcal meningitis is an acute bacterial disease transmitted from person-to-person through close (kissing, sharing eating utensils) or extended contact. Risk factors include extensive travel in crowded conditions, extended contact with local people in crowded places and travel to sub-Saharan Africa’s ‘meningitis belt’ where meningitis outbreaks occur in the dry season (Dec-April) and just prior to the rainy season (May-June). Read more about Men. meningitis.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.