The outbreaks of meningitis in these countries have killed 1,670 people so far, with nearly another 16,000 people who have already been infected.
The disease, which can easily spread from person to person through the air (in a sneeze or a cough) or from kissing or sharing food utensils, can cause brain damage, hearing losses and/or learning disabilities in about 10 to 20 percent of those who are able to survive.
"WHO and [its] partners recommend reactive mass vaccinations targeted at the highest risk groups, usually people between the ages of 2 [and] 30 years. Every district that is in an epidemic phase, as well as adjoining districts that are in the alert phase, should be targeted for vaccination. It is estimated that a mass immunization campaign, promptly implemented, can prevent 70 percent of cases," according to the U.N. report.
Meningitis symptoms can include a stiff neck, a high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches and vomiting.
The health agencies have already provided more than 1.6 million vaccine doses to these African countries.
Although some have expressed concerns of a vaccine shortage, the WHO estimates that nearly 15 million doses are currently available and they have also identified the manufacturers that can quickly supply more vaccines if necessary.
