Luanda – Low vaccination coverage among children and teenagers was pointed out as the main cause of the meningitis’ increase risk, Angop has learnt.
The warning was launched Monday by the coordinator of the National Vaccination Programme Felismina Neto, when speaking to Angop on vaccination programme.
Felismina described the prevention, through vaccination, as the simplest, safest and most effective way to protect against infectious diseases.
The official regretted the low rate in terms of compliance with the vaccination record booklet among children and young teens, a factor that worries the health authorities.
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges), usually caused by viruses or bacteria.
If not treated quickly, this disease can lead to permanent damage to the nervous system, widespread infection (septicemia), and causes death within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.
According to the official, the country has reported cases of the disease, with stress to the province of Huambo, where 126 cases were registered this year, with an above-average lethality.
Source: Angola Press News Agency