Meningitis epidemics in Lazaret centre in Niamey.

On 2 June 2015, the authorities have reported nearly 8,230 suspected cases and 500 deaths. Niger, located in what is commonly referred to as “the meningitis belt,” frequently deals with outbreaks of the disease. However, this epidemic is particularly dangerous, since it is caused by C strain—that is not common in the region.
C strain is particularly deadly among young adults and children, as the population in this region is only immunized against the A strain following a major vaccination campaign conducted in 2010. This is the first time that epidemics of meningitis C has occurred on this scale in Niger.
Since 23 March 2015, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, MSF treated almost 4,000 patients at Lazaret centre, Niamey (Niger). MSF has also supported 22 health centers built on the outskirts of Niamey to treat simple cases, and refer severe cases in ambulances.

MSFSTO1098

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