The WHO is calling for collaboration and heightened surveillance from neighbouring countries after an outbreak of bacterial meningitis hit Banikoara in the northern Alibori Department, near the borders of Burkina Faso, Niger and Nigeria. In the month to Jan 8, 77 meningococcal infections (and 17 deaths) were recorded - the predominant pathogens isolated were serogroup C (10) and X (4). The WHO notes that ‘[A]lthough Benin is not fully part of the meningitis belt in sub-Saharan Africa, the current outbreak is being reported at the time of the usual seasonal increase in cases of meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa.’ 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.