Meningitis Risk for Travelers
When we think of meningitis we often think of teenagers and college students who are become seriously sick or even die suddenly. It is recommended for teens and college students to receive meningitis vaccines, however not everyone is aware of the risk of meningitis to travelers.
Meningitis is spread from person to person by being in close contact with respiratory secretions from an infected person, either through coughing, sneezing, sharing food, beverages, tooth brushes, or kissing.
Meningitis is a world wide illness, however the highest occurrence rates are in the countries that make up the meningitis belt of Sub-Saharan Africa. There are periodic outbreaks during the dry season of December to June. As many as 1,000 cases in 100,000 people occur. In comparison there is 0.15 to 3 cases in 100,000 in the US, Europe, Australia, and South America. Outbreaks occur every 5-12 years. Originally it was serotype A, however more serotypes of meningitis is seen including C, W and X. In this part of Africa, children, teens, and adults over 30 are also affected.
Travelers are at risk, especially those with spend a prolonged period of time in these regions, especially with local citizens, and the Hajj Pilgrimage has been associated with meningitis outbreaks.
There are multiple meningitis vaccines available in the US and they protect you from different strains. Talk to us to determine which vaccine or vaccines is appropriate for your travel.
If you are traveling to areas within the meningitis belt or surrounding it, contact us to discuss & receive the right meningitis vaccine and discuss other vaccines and health concerns.
