The World Health Organization Launches a New Plan to Reduce Meningitis Deaths in Africa
The World Health Organization has announced a new plan aimed at reducing deaths caused by meningitis in the “meningitis belt” of Africa, emphasizing the importance of adopting updated guidelines for diagnosing and treating the disease more effectively, which will contribute to saving millions of lives.
In a statement released last Thursday, the organization explained that the disease, which is transmitted through respiratory secretions and close human contact, affects all age groups. However, low- and middle-income countries, particularly those within the “meningitis belt” stretching from Senegal to Ethiopia, are the most affected.
Dr. Marie-Pierre Preziosi, head of the meningitis team at the World Health Organization, confirmed that families who have experienced meningitis are fully aware of the serious danger this disease poses. Meanwhile, Dr. Tarun Dua, head of the brain health unit at the organization, warned of the devastating effects of infection, particularly on children, stressing the importance of enhancing vaccination coverage to prevent complications such as cognitive impairment or hearing loss.
Dr. Lorenzo Pizzoli, lead of the meningitis and bacterial epidemic diseases team at the WHO, pointed out that early detection of cases and the availability of vaccines allow for antibiotic treatment, especially in cases of limited outbreaks within schools.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by infection. It is a deadly disease that requires immediate medical care and is primarily transmitted through sneezing, coughing, and in crowded living conditions. Symptoms often include headache, fever, and neck stiffness.
