May 16, 2024
Nigeria became the world’s first country to introduce a vaccine that is capable of protecting people against the five strains of the meningococcal bacteria, which leads to meningitis. Nigeria is part of a region termed the ‘meningitis belt’, which includes 26 African countries that are highly prone to meningitis. Based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) data, annual meningitis cases reported in Africa increased by 50% last year. Called Men5CV, the new vaccine is an important development as it will offer protection against the A, C, W, Y and X strains of the meningococcal bacteria and is expected to help in eradicating meningitis from Africa’s meningitis belt.
DID YOU KNOW?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. The symptoms of meningitis vary but often include headache, fever, stiff neck and sensitivity to light.
Image for representational purposes
