Red Cross mobilises against meningitis epidemic in Ethiopia - 8.4 million at risk
7 March 2001


A major campaign is underway in Ethiopia to combat a deadly epidemic of meningoccal meningitis which is threatening 8.4 million people, some 16% of the population.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies today launched an appeal for one million Swiss francs to vaccinate at least 1.5 million people against the disease which leads to death in 50% to 80% of cases unless treated immediately.

The Ethiopian Red Cross has played a significant role in combatting previous outbreaks of meningitis and thousands of Red Cross volunteers are now active in raising awareness of the disease and ensuring those at risk are vaccinated as the worst epidemic in twelve years threatens to sweep the country.

"There is serious cause for alarm about the spread of this epidemic. While to-date there have been 1,348 cases reported and 108 deaths confirmed, this is probably a serious under-estimate of the reality on the ground. Government figures that 8.4 million people could be at risk are all too realistic. It is vital that we act now," said Dr. Bradley Hersh, a senior medical epidemiologist with the International Federation.

The International Federation and the Ethiopian Red Cross are working with WHO and other agencies to ensure good vaccination coverage — 1.5 million doses of vaccines, needles and syringes will be purchased by the Red Cross for use in the North Shoa, West Gojam and Oromia zones in the Amhara region where three million people are at risk. The Federation has already released 200,000 Swiss francs from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to allow the campaign to get underway including the purchase of vaccines and antibiotics for treatment.

"The main risk group is between the age of two and thirty years old. Meningoccal meningitis is a bacterial infection which attacks the central nervous system resulting in a high mortality rate. This mortality rate can be reduced to between 8% to 15% if the infection is treated in a timely manner. Prevention through vaccination is the best answer," said Dr. Hersh.

For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:

Denis McClean, Head of Media Service, Tel.: +41 22 730 4428/ + 41 79 217 3357

The Geneva-based International Federation promotes the humanitarian activities of 181 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies among vulnerable people. By coordinating international disaster relief and encouraging development support, it seeks to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The Federation, National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross together, constitute the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.