Epidemic meningococcal meningitis in children. A retrospective analysis of cases admitted to ESCH (1988).

One hundred twenty four cases of meningococcal meningitis were seen at the Ethio-Swedish Children's Hospital (ESCH) during the epidemic period December 1, 1987 to January 31, 1989. Data on demographic and clinical profile of patients were collected and analyzed. Two thirds of patients were above 5 years of age. Fifty percent of the patients came from the "mercato area" of the city of Addis Abeba, Higher 3, 4, 5 & 6. Thirteen cases were from outside Addis Abeba. The main clinical presentations were fever and vomiting in all age groups and headache in those above 5 years of age. The classical meningeal signs were rare in those below 5 years of age. The most common neurological deficit was loss of hearing. Mortality was very low (only 3 deaths). Continuous surveillance of demographic and clinical indicators is recommended as they could be useful early warning signs of an epidemic.