According to the report, Ethiopia has been experiencing a meningitis outbreak since week 49 of 2021, which ended on December 12th.
“Five regions, Oromia, Somalia, the SNNPR, Amhara, and Harari, account for 87.8% (1 228) of all suspected meningitis cases reported. The Oromia region has been hit the hardest, with 610 (44%) cases reported, followed by Somali with 211 (15%) cases and SNNPR with 154 (11%) cases.”
Ethiopia is one of the African countries “affected by both armed conflict and natural disasters” – drought, disease outbreaks, including the ongoing meningitis outbreak, according to the report. “Despite the fact that the meningitis outbreak has a low CFR, it is critical that the necessary actions be taken to control it and prevent any deterioration.”
The Rapid Response teams received pre-deployment training, and capacity building for laboratory management is ongoing, as is cerebrospinal fluid collection from suspected meningitis cases. “Samples are being sent to regional referral laboratories,” says the researcher. The government is ensuring that proper case management is in place. The International Coordinating Group (ICG) received a request for Ceftriaxone antibiotic for case management, according to WHO.
However, it is suggested that in-country laboratory capacity building be prioritized in order to avoid any delays in diagnosing the bacterial pathogen and requesting the necessary vaccine for the response. “Adequate funds, logistics, and drugs for case management should be provided by national authorities and partners.” AS