According to WHO, on week 02, 2026: 14 out of 26 countries of the enhanced meningitis surveillance network shared their meningitis epidemiological data. For previous epidemics and alerts, see news at www.healthytravel.ch.
Epidemics:
- None
Alert:
- D.R. Congo: Lualaba province, Sud-Ubangi province, Haut-Lomami province, North Kivu province
- Senegal: Dakar region and Saint Luise region
Pathogens identified in 2026 (for updates, see LINK).
Vaccination with a quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (Menveo® or Menquadfi ®) is recommended as follows:
- During epidemics or alerts, vaccination is recommended for stays > 7 days or in the case of close contact with the local population.
If no alert or epidemic is reported, vaccination is recommended for travel to the ‘meningitis belt’ during the dry season (typically occurring from December to June) across sub-Saharan Africa if:
- Travelling for >30 days or
- For shorter stays, depending on the individual risk (e.g. close personal contacts, work in health care facilities, stay in heavily occupied accommodation, risk of epidemics).
In addition, ensure all patients with an indication for pneumococcal vaccination are vaccinated according to the Swiss vaccination plan.