Archive for the ‘Meningitis’ Category

New Meningitis Vaccine Offers Greater Protection

Tuesday, May 25th, 2010 by

As reported last month, several cases of meningitis have been reported in the Sub-Sahara so far this year.  In this area where the high season for meningitis runs from December to June, there has been a big push to get those at risk for infection vaccinated.  The vaccines being offered effectively protect 90% of those who receive it from the A and B subtypes of meningitis that are responsible for the epidemics in Africa.

However, there are other forms of meningitis, and it is important that children, travelers and those in developing countries are protected from the many different strains caused by bacterial infections.  In developed nations the Meningitis C vaccine  is given in childhood, but this still leaves children and adults vulnerable to other strains known as  type A (common in Africa), type W and type Y. The ACWY vaccine, a conjugate vaccine, was developed to provide the necessary protection across all of these strains.  Results of these tests show a greater level of protection, a reduction in the length of time an individual can carry the infection and provides longer lasting immunity.

The current guidelines for the new conjugate vaccine recommend administering the vaccine to those age 11 and up, but it is so good that some authorities (the JCVI) in the UK are advising off-license use in those under 11 years as well.

In summary: if you are traveling and/or want to protect your children, ask for the new conjugate Meningitis ACWY vaccine over the traditional one.

Author: Charlie Easmon, MBBS
Charlie Easmon, MBBS is a General Practitioner whose practice has a strong focus on Travel Medicine.  He is a Regional Physician Advisor for HTH Worldwide and the Medical Director for The Number One Health Group on Harley Street in London and ALC Global Health Insurance.  He is a member of the Royal College of Physicians, UK and has a Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene from the University of Liverpool.   Dr. Easmon is an Honorary Lecturer at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. 
Photo by: Teseum

Share

Meningitis Belt Revisited; It’s High Season in the Sub-Sahara

Tuesday, April 13th, 2010 by

On April 1 the Ministry of Health of Chad reported that during the first three months of 2010, over 1500 cases of suspected meningococcal meningitis were diagnosed.  Meningococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection that attacks the lining of the brain.  Untreated, it is fatal in about 50% of cases.  Even with treatment, mortality rates average about 10%.  Of those who survive, 15 to 20% lose their limbs, have seizures, become mentally retarded, or experience other long-term neurological problems. 

Each year the African “meningitis belt” that stretches from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, and with a population exceeding 300 million, reports thousands of cases of confirmed meningococcal infections.  It’s high season. Most infections occur during the “dry season” (December to June) due to dust winds, overcrowding at the family level, and seasonal pilgrimages.  The World Health Organization, the Red Cross, and the International Coordinating Group (ICG) on Vaccine Provision for Epidemic Meningitis are attempting to combat yearly outbreaks by providing immunizations to millions of at-risk children and young adults. 

The bacteria responsible for meningitis (Neisseria meningitides) are transmitted from person to person through nasal and throat secretions.  Close and prolonged contact with someone who is coughing, sneezing, or sharing drinking utensils facilitates the spread of the illness.  The average incubation period is four days, but symptoms of stiff neck, fever, severe headache and rash may occur anywhere from 2 to 10 days following exposure. 

Anyone who is considering travelling to the sub-Sahara region should receive the meningitis vaccine.  There are two currently available in the United States:

  1. The Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (Menomune) available since the 1970s
  2. The Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (Menactra) available since 2005

Both vaccines are capable of providing immunity for the A and B subtypes responsible for the epidemics in Africa.  Both vaccines also work well, and protect over 90% of those who receive it.  Menactra is currently preferred by most infectious disease specialists for those between 10 and 55, as it is believed to give better, longer lasting protection.  Menomune should be used for children 2 to 10 years old and adults over 55.

Photo info: http://www.flickr.com/photos/teseum/3533755515/

Share

Outbreak in Africa’s Meningitis Belt Means Travelers Need Immunization

Friday, April 24th, 2009 by

High season is nearing the end in the annual battle against meningitis in many countries of equatorial Africa. According to the Centers for Disease Control , there have been over 25,000 suspected cases so far this year in an area that stretches from Mali and Senegal in the west to Ethiopia and Eritrea in the east. Nigeria and Niger have been especially hard hit. The high season for infections runs from December through June.

If you aren’t immunized, it isn’t safe to visit these countries at this time.

Forgive me this pause for a little education – Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges – the thin lining of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms may include severe headache, a stiff neck, fever, vomiting, a marked sensitivity to light, and delirium.  It is most commonly caused by the Neisseria meningiditis bacteria. Despite early and adequate treatment, 5-10% of patients die, usually within 24-36 hours.  Those who recover may experience brain damage, with hearing loss and/or learning disabilities in 10-20% of survivors.  The infection is spread by breathing in the small droplets of fluid from the sneezing or coughing of those affected. In short, it spreads quickly and it’s devastating.

http://gamapserver.who.int/mapLibrary/Files/Maps/Global_MeningitTravelers to the so called “meningitis belt” MUST be immunized.  Fortunately, the two commercial vaccines available in the United States (MPSV4 or Menomune and MCV4 or MenactraT) provide protection against the most common types of infection.  Students who are immunized against meningitis in preparation for dormitory living in the U.S.  typically receive these vaccines, but they should check with their physician to make sure they are protected.  Those traveling through  or living in the meningitis belt should adopt strategies for avoiding the illness such as staying away from large gatherings, refraining from sharing drinking and eating utensils, and seeking medical attention at the first sign of a headache, fever, stiff neck, or purplish rash. 

The CDC has a website for frequently asked questions about meningitis and the World Health Organization provides useful information on its website.  Though there is no guarantee that vaccinations will eliminate your chance of contracting the infection, they are safe, effective and highly recommended.

Share