Why IMD matters
Early symptoms of Invasive Meningococcal Disease can be non-specific and difficult to recognise. Symptoms may begin within the first 4–8 hours, and the disease can progress very quickly.
Progression from the first symptoms to death can occur within 24–48 hours.
Even with medical care, approximately 17% of cases in South Africa are fatal.
Around 20% of survivors may experience long-term complications, including hearing loss, loss of limbs, nervous-system problems or brain damage.
Who may be at higher risk?
Infants are especially vulnerable, but IMD can affect people of any age.
Higher-risk groups and situations include:
- teenagers and young adults;
- adults aged 65 years and older;
- people living in crowded environments such as hostels, dormitories or military settings;
- people with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV infection, complement deficiencies or asplenia;
- people attending large gatherings or pilgrimages;
- laboratory workers and mine workers.
In South Africa
Serogroup B remains the dominant cause of invasive meningococcal disease in South Africa.
