14 African nations face meningitis epidemic: Red Cross

GENEVA (AFP) — Red Cross officials warned Thursday that 14 African countries could face one of the worst meningitis epidemics in recent memory and announced prevention campaigns in the affected areas.

"The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is launching meningitis prevention activities in 14 countries across Africa to get ready for what could be one of the worst meningitis epidemics in a decade," a statement said.

"The first indications of an epidemic could appear as early as February-March 2008," it said.

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