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Spread of Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I meningitis epidemic into Zambia
1Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia.
Abstract:
The epidemic of Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I strain began with the 1987 outbreak in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Intense epidemics in African countries occurred the following year. Clone III-I was first isolated from Africa in 1988 in Chad, followed by epidemics in Ethiopia (1989), Kenya and Tanzania (1989), and The Central African Republic (1992). We report an epidemic of Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I afflicting Zambia during a 2-year period (April 1992-May 1994). This extension of the 'meningitis belt' southwards into Central Africa is cause for concern. Active surveillance for this disease should be carried out by all African countries, even those outside the well described sub-Saharan 'meningitis belt'.
Insights
The Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I strain caused an epidemic in Zambia from 1992-1994. This finding highlights the need for active meningitis surveillance across all African nations.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- The Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I strain has caused significant epidemics globally since 1987.
- Previous outbreaks were concentrated in the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa, defining the 'meningitis belt'.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and analyze the epidemic of Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I in Zambia between April 1992 and May 1994.
- To assess the southward expansion of this meningitis strain into Central Africa.
Main Methods:
- Active surveillance for Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I.
- Epidemiological data collection and analysis during the specified 2-year period.
Main Results:
- An epidemic of Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I occurred in Zambia from April 1992 to May 1994.
- This represents a southward extension of the meningitis belt into Central Africa.
Conclusions:
- The Neisseria meningitidis group A clone III-I strain poses a threat beyond the traditional meningitis belt.
- Continuous active surveillance for meningococcal disease is crucial for all African countries to monitor and control outbreaks.