MENINGOCOCCAL MENINGITIS IN ETHIOPIA 1974.1983 AND STRATEGIES OF CONTROL

Abstract

ABSTRACT Ethiopia lies in the eastern part of the African cerebrospinal meningitis belt, but the existence of seasonal epidemic of this dangerous diseases has only been recognized since 1974. In the last decade, epidemic" have occurred every year in at least two region.! in northwestern Ethiopia. This study review" the experience" of three period. During 1974-1976, the region affected were identified and health workers began to appreciate the seriousness of meningitis. There were major epidemic" in 1977 and 1981. More epidemiological studies were done, active and passive "surveillance begun, polyvalent vaccine (A+C) introduced and field treatment of patients proved effective. Much lower case fatality rate" in the 1982 and 1983 outbreak showed the value of these measure. Equally important has been the active participation at all level of government and non government agencies and the communities themselves. Each region is now self sufficient in early detection and management of epidemic". Meningitis control in Ethiopia is a successful example of the primary health care approach