Escalating worry about the increasing meningitis outbreak in Kenya
In Africa, the continent is an endemic zone for meningococcal meningitis, with Kenya falling within the African meningitis belt, a region stretching from West Africa to East Africa. This geographical distribution has been a constant concern, with the disease affecting more than a third of humanity and causing an estimated two million cases annually.
The bacterial infection, known for its rapid progression, can be fatal within days, with death rates up to five times higher among teenagers and young adults aged 15 to 25 years. The A,C,Y,W-35 strain of meningococcal meningitis, responsible for many deaths, including in Kenya and a large swathe of Africa, is a significant cause for concern.
Symptoms of the disease include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and a haemorrhagic rash. Unfortunately, the infection can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages, making prompt treatment crucial. A fast diagnosis and early treatments are vital in the fight against the disease, as delayed treatment increases the risk of longer-term brain damage.
Fortunately, advancements in medicine and vaccines have made a significant impact on reducing deaths from meningococcal meningitis. A single dose of the vaccine offers immunity for life and costs Sh12,000. Despite this, the economic burden of treating the disease is enormous, with inpatients paying between Sh24,000 to Sh38,000, depending on the hospital.
Dr. Nicholas Ochieng', a general medical practitioner, emphasizes immunization as the best option due to the difficulty in diagnosing meningococcal meningitis in its early stages. He advocates for proactive measures in the public and private health sectors to combat infectious diseases, which, together with poor governance, poverty, and corruption, have made life miserable for many Kenyans.
Researchers and scientists are currently working on the development of drugs and vaccines against the bacterium causing meningococcal meningitis. The majority of this research is being conducted in Germany, where new meningococcal B and C vaccinations will be available starting autumn 2025. Specific research institutions are not named, but development is ongoing in the clinical and pharmaceutical research sectors.
In conclusion, meningococcal meningitis remains a persistent threat in Africa, particularly within the meningitis belt. Immunization, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment are crucial in the fight against this deadly disease. With ongoing research and the development of new vaccines, there is hope for a future where meningococcal meningitis is no longer a major health concern.
