• Cholera
• Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese B Encephalitis
• Malaria
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Polio
• Rabies
• Tetanus
• Tuberculosis
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever

Meningococcal meningitis

What is it?

It’s a bacterial form of meningitis which is a serious infection of the lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It can be severe and at worst can cause severe brain damage or death.

Risk areas:

Sub-Saharan Africa in a zone from Senegal to Ethiopia. Outbreaks have been known to occur in Zambia, Malawi and Namibia. Epidemics can occur annually and are mostly during the dry season. North Africa is not generally affected.

Transmission:

Bacteria is passed through droplets of throat or respiratory secretions e.g. coughing, sneezing or kissing.

Symptoms:

The most common symptoms are high fever, stiff neck, headaches, sensitivity to light, vomiting and a rash.

Treatment:

The average incubation period is four days but can extend to ten days. If symptoms occur, you should view it as a medical emergency and seek urgent medical attention. Treatment normally includes a number of antibiotics.

Vaccinations:

The risk to travellers is generally low, particularly for package tourists. Risks are higher if you are going to crowded conditions e.g. pilgrimages. Vaccinations are available but seek advice from your doctor as to whether it is advisable.