Meningococcal Meningitis in Niger (Update)

The outbreak of memingococcal menigitis in Niger is ongoing. WHO has reported that between 1 January-25 April 2015, a total of 1543 suspected cases including 147 deaths have been recorded. Cases have occurred in all regions of the country with the exception of Diffa in the southeast of Niger.

(Via WHO Global Alert and Response - accessed 01/05/15)

Advice for Travellers

In Niger, the meningococcal season generally runs from Dec-Jun. Immunisation is available for those considered to be at risk:

• Travellers who are likely to have close, prolonged contact with the local population.
• Long stay travellers.
• Those visiting friends and relatives.
• Those who will be exposed to crowded areas (e.g. stadia, schools, hospitals).
• Travellers visiting an area affected by an ongoing outbreak or epidemic.