History of Meningitis in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 12, 2025

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Common symptoms include fever, severe headache, vomiting, and neck stiffness, sometimes accompanied by photophobia. Other symptoms can be confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light and noise. Young children may show only nonspecific signs like irritability or drowsiness. A non-blanching rash may also occur.

1905: Major Epidemic in Nigeria and Ghana

In 1905, a major epidemic swept across Nigeria and Ghana, marking the beginning of more common African epidemics in the 20th century.

1906: Antiserum Produced in Horses

In 1906, antiserum was produced in horses to combat meningitis; this advancement was further developed by Simon Flexner.

1908: Major Epidemic in Nigeria and Ghana

In 1908, a major epidemic swept across Nigeria and Ghana, marking the beginning of more common African epidemics in the 20th century.

1944: Penicillin Reported Effective

In 1944, penicillin was first reported as an effective treatment for meningitis.

1990: Meningitis Deaths in 1990

In 1990, meningitis caused 433,000 deaths globally.

1996: Start of Major Meningitis Epidemic in Africa

In 1996, the largest meningitis epidemic ever recorded began, sweeping across Africa.

1997: Peak of Major Meningitis Epidemic in Africa

In 1997, the meningitis epidemic that started in 1996 peaked, causing over 250,000 cases and 25,000 deaths.

2002: Evidence of Steroid Treatment Benefits

In 2002, evidence emerged that treatment with steroids could improve the prognosis of bacterial meningitis.

2010: Meningitis Deaths in 2010

In 2010, it was estimated that meningitis resulted in 420,000 deaths, excluding cryptococcal meningitis.

2013: Meningitis Deaths in 2013

In 2013, meningitis resulted in 303,000 deaths, which was a decrease from 464,000 deaths in 1990.

2014: Approval of New Meningitis B Vaccines in 2014

In 2014, two new vaccines were approved that are effective against a wider range of group B meningococci strains.

2019: Meningitis Global Impact in 2019

In 2019, approximately 7.7 million people worldwide were diagnosed with meningitis, resulting in 236,000 deaths.

Mentioned in this timeline

Nigeria located in West Africa is the continent's most populous...

Africa is the second-largest and second-most populous continent home to...

Ghana officially the Republic of Ghana is a West African...