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Prevalence and persistence of Neisseria meningitidis carriage in Swedish university students. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e25. [PMID: 36775828 PMCID: PMC9990396 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823000018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The bacterium Neisseria meningitidis causes life-threatening disease worldwide, typically with a clinical presentation of sepsis or meningitis, but can be carried asymptomatically as part of the normal human oropharyngeal microbiota. The aim of this study was to examine N. meningitidis carriage with regard to prevalence, risk factors for carriage, distribution of meningococcal lineages and persistence of meningococcal carriage. Throat samples and data from a self-reported questionnaire were obtained from 2744 university students (median age: 23 years) at a university in Sweden on four occasions during a 12-month period. Meningococcal isolates were characterised using whole-genome sequencing. The carriage rate among the students was 9.1% (319/3488; 95% CI 8.2-10.1). Factors associated with higher carriage rate were age ≤22 years, previous tonsillectomy, cigarette smoking, drinking alcohol and attending parties, pubs and clubs. Female gender and sharing a household with children aged 0-9 years were associated with lower carriage. The most frequent genogroups were capsule null locus (cnl), group B and group Y and the most commonly identified clonal complexes (cc) were cc198 and cc23. Persistent carriage with the same meningococcal strain for 12 months was observed in two students. Follow-up times exceeding 12 months are recommended for future studies investigating long-term carriage of N. meningitidis.
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Gobin M, Hughes G, Foulkes S, Bagnall H, Trindall A, Decraene V, Edeghere O, Balasegaram S, Cummins A, Coole L. The epidemiology and management of clusters of invasive meningococcal disease in England, 2010-15. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 42:e58-e65. [PMID: 30942387 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdz028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidance for public health management of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in in England recommends the use of antibiotic chemoprophylaxis and vaccination. We summarized clinical and epidemiological data collected during routine management of IMD clusters in England. METHODS Data on epidemiology and operational decisions for public health management were reviewed for clusters between April 2010 and December 2015. RESULTS Clusters were generally 2-3 cases (53/58; 91%) within a single age band <18-years. Nurseries (n = 20, 34%), households/social networks (n = 14, 24%) and schools (n = 10, 17%) were the commonest settings. Chemoprophylaxis alone was used in 36 (58%) clusters, including most serogroup B clusters (31/41; 76%). Chemoprophylaxis and vaccination was used in a further 20 (32%) clusters. Vaccine was delivered promptly (<7 days). Four clusters had cases with onset post-chemoprophylaxis; no clusters recorded cases with onset post-vaccination. No pattern was observed between interventions and setting/population at risk, and interventions were consistent with national guidance. Challenges to management included logistical issues related to intervention delivery. CONCLUSIONS Public health management of IMD clusters presents challenges in decision-making and implementation of interventions. Nonetheless, few cases were observed following intervention. Responses were consistent with national guidance. A systematic data collection tool should be developed to support future evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Gobin
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol BS1 6EH, UK
| | - Gareth Hughes
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Leeds LS1 4PL, UK
| | - Sarah Foulkes
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Birmingham B3 2PW, UK
| | - Helen Bagnall
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Birmingham B3 2PW, UK
| | - Amy Trindall
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Valérie Decraene
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Liverpool L3 1DS, UK
| | - Obaghe Edeghere
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Birmingham B3 2PW, UK
| | - Sooria Balasegaram
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London SE1 6LH, UK
| | - Amelia Cummins
- Public Health England East of England, Cambridge CB21 5XA, UK
| | - Louise Coole
- Field Service, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Leeds LS1 4PL, UK
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Sharma S, Acharya J, Caugant DA, Aryal S, Banjara MR, Ghimire P, Singh A. Meningococcal Carriage among Household Contacts of Patients with Invasive Meningococcal Disease in Kathmandu, Nepal: A Longitudinal Study. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10070781. [PMID: 34206153 PMCID: PMC8308540 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Because asymptomatic carriers are key source of transmission, information on meningococcal carriage in the community provides a scientific basis for appropriate preventive/control strategies. This longitudinal study (January 2017–December 2019) aimed to estimate carriage rate of meningococci among household contacts of meningococcal meningitis cases within Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. Throat swab samples were collected at first visit from each person in households, twice a month for up to 2 months and subsequently on a monthly basis for a further 4 months. Altogether, 1125 throat samples were processed by conventional culture for the identification of meningococci. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study on meningococcal carriage in Nepal. The meningococcal carriage rate among household contacts was 15%. All carriers were aged 19 years or older. There was no statistically significant gender difference. The duration of carriage was 60 days. Twenty of 36 isolates belonged to serogroup A, and 16 were non-serogroupable (NG). Serogroups isolated from the same individuals did not change within the follow-up period. All meningococcal isolates over the past 38 years in Nepal that have been reported in previous studies have belonged to serogroup A. The detection of NG meningococcal isolates in apparently healthy household contacts clearly indicates the importance of vigilance through surveillance and periodic in-depth studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya Sharma
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (M.R.B.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +977-98-4150-8496
| | - Jyoti Acharya
- National Public Health Laboratory, Teku, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal;
| | - Dominique A. Caugant
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Meningococci, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, 0213 Oslo, Norway;
| | | | - Megha Raj Banjara
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (M.R.B.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Prakash Ghimire
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (M.R.B.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Anjana Singh
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal; (M.R.B.); (P.G.); (A.S.)
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Sekiya N, Sunagawa T, Takahashi H, Kamiya H, Yoshino S, Ohnishi M, Okabe N, Taniguchi K. Serogroup B invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) outbreak at a Japanese high school dormitory: An outbreak investigation report from the first IMD outbreak in decades. Vaccine 2021; 39:2177-2182. [PMID: 33736919 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The first outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in decades occurred in a high school dormitory in 2011. This report aims to describe the results of the IMD outbreak investigation and to discuss current issues of IMD in Japan. METHODS We conducted an epidemiological and microbiological investigation against the IMD outbreak of serogroup B among students and staff in a high school dormitory. Information on patients was collected to analyze risk factors for IMD. Control measures and public health actions were summarized. RESULTS Three cases of meningitis and two cases of bacteremia were identified. Freshmen (15-16 years old) living in the dormitory with preceding cough were high-risk populations in this outbreak. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, multilocus sequence typing, and porA gene sequencing results revealed that all isolates were closely related to each other and had deep similarities to the domestic circulating meningococcal strain. The outbreak was terminated after promptly implementing control measures. Based on the results of our investigation, from April 2013, national infectious disease surveillance started to target meningococcal bacteremia as part of IMD, in addition to meningococcal meningitis, which was newly designated as a category II school infectious disease under the School Health and Safety Act. CONCLUSIONS This outbreak has enhanced public health measures against IMD in Japan. The development of national guidelines for appropriate public health interventions on the IMD outbreak response including chemoprophylaxis is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noritaka Sekiya
- Field Epidemiology Training Program Japan (FETP-J), 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan; Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komagome Hospital, Honkomagome 3-18-22, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 1138677, Japan
| | - Tomimasa Sunagawa
- Infectious Disease Surveillance Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan.
| | - Hideyuki Takahashi
- Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan
| | - Hajime Kamiya
- Infectious Disease Surveillance Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan
| | - Shuji Yoshino
- Miyazaki Prefectural Institute for Public Health and Environment, 2-3-2 Gakuen-Kibanadai-Nishi, Miyazaki-shi, Miyazaki 8892155, Japan
| | - Makoto Ohnishi
- Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Okabe
- Infectious Disease Surveillance Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan; Kawasaki City Institute for Public Health, 5-13-10 Ohshima, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0834, Japan
| | - Kiyosu Taniguchi
- Infectious Disease Surveillance Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 1628640, Japan; Department of Clinical Research, National Mie Hospital, 357 Ohsato-Kubota-cho, Tsu-shi, Mie 5140125, Japan
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Gbesemete D, Laver JR, de Graaf H, Ibrahim M, Vaughan A, Faust S, Gorringe A, Read RC. Protocol for a controlled human infection with genetically modified Neisseria lactamica expressing the meningococcal vaccine antigen NadA: a potent new technique for experimental medicine. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026544. [PMID: 31048443 PMCID: PMC6501966 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neisseria lactamica is a commensal organism found in the human nasopharynx and is closely related to the pathogen N. meningitidis (meningococcus). Carriage of N. lactamica is associated with reduced meningococcal carriage and disease. We summarise an ethically approved protocol for an experimental human challenge study using a genetically modified strain of N. lactamica that expresses the meningococcal antigen NadA. We aim to develop a model to study the role of specific bacterial antigens in nasopharyngeal carriage and immunity, to evaluate vaccines for their efficacy in preventing colonisation and to provide a proof of principle for the development of bacterial medicines. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Healthy adult volunteers aged 18-45 years will receive an intranasal inoculation of either the NadA containing strain of N. lactamica or a genetically modified, but wild-type equivalent control strain. These challenge volunteers will be admitted for 4.5 days observation following inoculation and will then be discharged with strict infection control rules. Bedroom contacts of the challenge volunteers will also be enrolled as contact volunteers. Safety, colonisation, shedding, transmission and immunogenicity will be assessed over 90 days after which carriage will be terminated with antibiotic eradication therapy. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and South Central Oxford A Research Ethics Committee (reference: 18/SC/0133). Findings will be published in peer-reviewed open-access journals as soon as possible. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03630250; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Gbesemete
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jay Robert Laver
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Hans de Graaf
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Muktar Ibrahim
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Andrew Vaughan
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Saul Faust
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Andrew Gorringe
- Research, Public Health England Porton, Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK
| | - Robert Charles Read
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, Southampton, UK
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Miglietta A, Innocenti F, Pezzotti P, Riccobono E, Moriondo M, Pecile P, Nieddu F, Rossolini GM, Azzari C, Balocchini E, Rezza G, Voller F, Stefanelli P. Carriage rates and risk factors during an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease due to Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C ST-11 (cc11) in Tuscany, Italy: a cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:29. [PMID: 30621624 PMCID: PMC6323866 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3598-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During 2015–2016 an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease due to N. meningitidis serogroup C ST-11 (cc11) occurred in Tuscany, Italy. The outbreak affected mainly the age group 20–30 years, men who have sex with men, and the area located between the cities of Firenze, Prato and Empoli, with discos and gay-venues associated-clusters. A cross-sectional-survey was conducted to assess the prevalence and risk factors for meningococcal-carriage, in order to address public health interventions. Methods A convenience sample of people aged 11–45 years provided oropharyngeal swab specimens and completed questionnaires on risk factors for meningococcal carriage during a 3 months study-period, conducted either in the outbreak-area and in a control-area not affected by the outbreak (cities of Grosseto and Siena). Isolates were tested by culture plus polymerase chain reaction. Serogroup C meningococcal isolates were further characterized using multilocus sequence typing. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for meningococcal carriage. Results A total of 2285 oropharyngeal samples were collected. Overall, meningococcal carriage prevalence was 4.8% (n = 110), with nonencapsulated meningococci most prevalent (2.3%; n = 52). Among encapsulated meningococci, serogroup B was the most prevalent (1.8%; n = 41), followed by serogroup Y (0.5%; n = 11) and serogroup C (0.2%; n = 4); one carrier of serogroup E and one of serogroup Z, were also found (0.04%). Three individuals from the city of Empoli were found to carry the outbreak strain, C:ST-11 (cc11); this city also had the highest serogroup C carriage prevalence (0.5%). At the multivariate analyses, risk factors for meningococcal carriage were: illicit-drugs consumption (AOR 6.30; p < 0.01), active smoking (AOR 2.78; p = 0.01), disco/clubs/parties attendance (AOR 2.06; p = 0.04), being aged 20–30 years (AOR 3.08; p < 0.01), and have had same-sex intercourses (AOR 6.69; p < 0.01). Conclusions A low prevalence of meningococcal serogroup C carriage in an area affected by an outbreak due to the hypervirulent N. meningitidis serogroup C ST-11 (cc11) strain was found. The city of Empoli had the highest attack-rate during the outbreak and also the highest meningococcal serogroup C carriage-prevalence due to the outbreak-strain. Multivariate analyses underlined a convergence of risk factors, which partially confirmed those observed among meningococcal outbreak-cases, and that should be considered in targeted immunization campaigns. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3598-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Miglietta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161, Rome, Italy. .,Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Epidemiologic Observatory, Via Pietro Dazzi, 1, Flroence, Italy. .,Units of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Central Tuscany Health Authority, Via di San Salvi , 12 - Palazzina 16 -, 50135, Florence, Italy.
| | - Francesco Innocenti
- Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Epidemiologic Observatory, Via Pietro Dazzi, 1, Flroence, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pezzotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Riccobono
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Moriondo
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pecile
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Nieddu
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Azzari
- Laboratory of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Balocchini
- Living Environment, Food and Veterinary Prevention and Safety Office, Tuscany Region, Via Taddeo Alderotti, 26/N, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rezza
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Voller
- Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Epidemiologic Observatory, Via Pietro Dazzi, 1, Flroence, Italy
| | - Paola Stefanelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Global Meningococcal Initiative: guidelines for diagnosis and confirmation of invasive meningococcal disease. Epidemiol Infect 2016; 144:3052-3057. [PMID: 27357022 PMCID: PMC5080665 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268816001308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The Global Meningococcal Initiative (GMI) is an international group of scientists and clinicians with recognized expertise in meningococcal disease including microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, public health and vaccinology. The GMI was established to promote the global prevention of meningococcal disease through education, research and international cooperation. The GMI held its second summit meeting in 2013 to discuss the different aspects of existing meningococcal immunization programmes and surveillance systems. Laboratory confirmation and characterization were identified as essential for informing evidence-based vaccine implementation decisions. The relative merits of different confirmatory methodologies and their applications in different resource settings were a key component of the discussions. This paper summarizes the salient issues discussed, with special emphasis on the recommendations made and any deficiencies that were identified.
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Soriano-Gabarró M, Wolter J, Hogea C, Vyse A. Carriage ofNeisseria meningitidisin Europe: a review of studies undertaken in the region. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 9:761-74. [DOI: 10.1586/eri.11.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Effectiveness of Immunoprophylaxis in Suppressing Carriage of Neisseria Meningitidis in the Military Environment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 836:19-28. [DOI: 10.1007/5584_2014_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Majumdar T, Bhattacharya S, Barman D, Begum R. Laboratory confirmed outbreak of meningococcal infections in Tripura. Indian J Med Microbiol 2011; 29:74-6. [PMID: 21304204 DOI: 10.4103/0255-0857.76533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Abstract
Since the first outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis were first described in Geneva in 1804 and in New England in 1806, and since the discovery of the causative agent by Weichselbaum in 1887 and the beginning of epidemics of meningococcal meningitis in the sub-Saharan Africa approximately 100 years ago, Neisseria meningitidis has been recognized as the cause worldwide of epidemic meningitis and meningococcemia. The massive epidemic outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa in the 1990's, the emergence since 1995 of serogroups Y, W-135 and X and the prolonged outbreak of serogroup B meningococcal disease in New Zealand over the last decade serve to remind us of the continued potential of the meningococcus to cause global morbidity and mortality. This report reviews new discoveries impacting prevention and future prospects for conquering the meningococcus as a human pathogen.
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Cardeñosa N, Domínguez A, Orcau A, Pañella H, Godoy P, Minguell S, Camps N, Vázquez JA. Carriers of Neisseria meningitidis in household contacts of meningococcal disease cases in Catalonia (Spain). Eur J Epidemiol 2002; 17:877-84. [PMID: 12081108 DOI: 10.1023/a:1015696513062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A population-based study was carried out in Catalonia (Spain) from May 1998 to April 1999 to determine the prevalence of Neisseria meningitidis strains in meningococcal disease (MD) cases and their contacts, as well as the prevalence of meningococci in close contacts of patients with MD, and risk factors for its carriage. A total of 364 close contacts of 87 patients with MD were studied. Throat samples were collected by hospital staff before rifampicin chemoprophylaxis was begun. For each contact, a questionnaire was completed for sociodemographic and epidemiological data. A total of 61 contacts (an overall prevalence of 16.8%) were carriers of meningococcal strains (40 B, 10 C, 1 Z and 10 non-groupable isolates). This prevalence is two to three times higher than in the general population (5-10%). In 33/61 microbiologically confirmed cases (54%) and in 9/26 probable cases (35%), contacts carrying N. meningitidis were found. In 22/33 confirmed cases with carrier contacts, it was possible to study the phenotype of the carrier and patient strains (sero-group, serotype and serosubtype). In 14 cases (64%), both strains were identical, in four cases, only a minor change was observed, in three cases, some strain (from the case or from his contact) was non-serotypable and non-serosubtypable, and in one case, both isolates were completely different. Bivariate analysis identified five statistically significant risk factors for meningococcal carriage: age (5-9 years old), meningococcal A+C vaccination, severe household overcrowding, social class and heavy active smoking (>20 cigarettes a day). Multivariate analysis revealed that of these five variables, only heavy active smoking remained statistically significant when the other factors were controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Cardeñosa
- General Directorate of Public Health, Generalitat de Catalunya, Spain
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Berkovitch M, Bulkowstein M, Zhovtis D, Greenberg R, Nitzan Y, Barzilay B, Boldur I. Colonization rate of bacteria in the throat of healthy infants. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2002; 63:19-24. [PMID: 11879925 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-5876(01)00635-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE the human throat is a major ecological site for various bacteria that can reach neighbouring sterile sites and cause mild infections or invasive diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the carriage rate of several potential pathogens in the throat of healthy children under the age of 2 years. METHODS cultures were taken from the tonsils of 1000 healthy infants aged 1-24 months attending well-baby clinics, who had not received antibiotic therapy during the preceding 14 days. RESULTS one hundred and ninety-eight (19.8%) cultures were positive. Thirteen (1.3%) cultures were positive for beta-haemolytic Streptococcus group A, 23 (2.3%) for Streptococcus pneumoniae. In 28 (2.8%) and 24 (2.4%) cultures, respectively, Haemophilus influenzae Type b and non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae were recovered. The commonest bacterium found was Staphylococcus aureus (99 positive cultures). Eleven children carried two species of bacteria and from one 6-month-old child three species were isolated concurrently. CONCLUSIONS it is concluded that children younger than 2 years of age can be carriers of several types of pathogenic bacteria. In contrast to many other studies, in this study beta-haemolytic Streptococcus group A was isolated from the tonsils of children younger than 1 year of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matitiahu Berkovitch
- Division of Pediatrics, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Zerifin 70300, Israel.
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Marks PJ, Neal KR. Variations in chemoprophylaxis for meningococcal disease: a retrospective case note review, analysis of routine prescribing data and questionnaire of general practitioners. BMC Public Health 2001; 1:16. [PMID: 11806758 PMCID: PMC64787 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-1-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2001] [Accepted: 12/11/2001] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasive meningococcal disease is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in the UK. Administration of chemoprophylaxis to close contacts reduces the risk of a secondary case. However, unnecessary chemoprophylaxis may be associated with adverse reactions, increased antibiotic resistance and removal of organisms, such as Neisseria lactamica, which help to protect against meningococcal disease. Limited evidence exists to suggest that overuse of chemoprophylaxis may occur. This study aimed to evaluate prescribing of chemoprophylaxis for contacts of meningococcal disease by general practitioners and hospital staff. METHODS Retrospective case note review of cases of meningococcal disease was conducted in one health district from 1st September 1997 to 31st August 1999. Routine hospital and general practitioner prescribing data was searched for chemoprophylactic prescriptions of rifampicin and ciprofloxacin. A questionnaire of general practitioners was undertaken to obtain more detailed information. RESULTS Prescribing by hospital doctors was in line with recommendations by the Consultant for Communicable Disease Control. General practitioners prescribed 118% more chemoprophylaxis than was recommended. Size of practice and training status did not affect the level of additional prescribing, but there were significant differences by geographical area. The highest levels of prescribing occurred in areas with high disease rates and associated publicity. However, some true close contacts did not appear to receive prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS Receipt of chemoprophylaxis is affected by a series of patient, doctor and community interactions. High publicity appears to increase demand for prophylaxis. Some true contacts do not receive appropriate chemoprophylaxis and are left at an unnecessarily increased risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Marks
- Division of Public Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Keith R Neal
- Division of Public Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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15
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Pollard AJ, Begg N. Meningococcal disease and healthcare workers. BMJ (CLINICAL RESEARCH ED.) 1999; 319:1147-8. [PMID: 10541486 PMCID: PMC1116940 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.319.7218.1147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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16
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Barroso D. Neisseria meningitidis nasopharynx colonization of diseased patients on presentation and on discharge. Trop Doct 1999; 29:108-9. [PMID: 10418306 DOI: 10.1177/004947559902900217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Fifty-one meningococcal disease patients were randomly selected and a paired throat swab was taken before and after specific therapy. Neisseria meningitidis nasopharyngeal carriage after intravenous antibiotic therapy were found in only two cases (4%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.5-13). All close contacts of the cases received chemoprophylaxis and throat swabs taken 10 days later were negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Barroso
- São Sebastião State Institute for Infectious Diseases, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kristiansen BE, Tveten Y, Jenkins A. Which contacts of patients with meningococcal disease carry the pathogenic strain of Neisseria meningitidis? A population based study. BMJ (CLINICAL RESEARCH ED.) 1998; 317:621-5. [PMID: 9727987 PMCID: PMC28653 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.317.7159.621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/1998] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of the pathogenic strain of Neisseria meningitidis in contacts of patients with meningococcal disease, and to determine which contact groups are likely to be carriers and warrant chemoprophylaxis. DESIGN Population based study. SETTING Norwegian county of Telemark. SUBJECTS 1535 primary contacts of 48 patients with meningococcal disease, and 78 secondary contacts. INTERVENTIONS Carriers of the pathogenic strain were treated with rifampicin. All household members and kissing contacts under 15 years of age were treated with oral penicillin. Contacts were taught to recognise the symptoms of meningococcal disease. RESULTS In 27 of 48 cases investigated, contacts carrying the pathogenic strain of N meningitidis were found. A total of 42 such contacts were identified. Contacts were stratified into three classes according to the assumed closeness of contact with patients. In class 1 (household members and kissing contacts) the prevalence of the pathogenic strain was 12.4% (95% confidence interval 5.5% to 19.3%). In classes 2 and 3 the prevalence was 1.9% (0.9% to 3.4%) and 1.6% (0.14% to 3.1%). CONCLUSIONS There is a high rate of carriage of the pathogenic strain of N meningitidis in patients' household members and kissing contacts, and this supports the practice of giving chemoprophylaxis to these contacts. The prevalence of carriage among other contacts is 2-3 times that found in the general population (0.7%); the benefits of chemoprophylaxis to these contacts may be marginal.
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Affiliation(s)
- B E Kristiansen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Tromso, 9037 Tromso, Norway.
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18
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Barroso DE, de Carvalho DM, Nogueira SA, Solari CA. [Meningococcal disease: epidemiology and control of secondary cases]. Rev Saude Publica 1998; 32:89-97. [PMID: 9699352 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101998000100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological features of meningococcal disease described as from the second half of the 80's inclusive, have motivated a revision of current guidelines for sporadic disease and outbreak control. The increase of disease among teenagers and linked cases involving schools are the two most significant aspects that have prompted the revision of control measures. Vaccination routines and advice for the disease management of clusters are also relevant features recently revised. This present paper describes the management and some epidemiological features of secondary cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E Barroso
- Departamento de Medicina Tropical, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil.
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19
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Tayal SC, Rashid S, Muttu KM, Hildreth AJ. Meningococcal carriage: prevalence and sex-related risk factors. J Infect 1997; 34:101-5. [PMID: 9138131 DOI: 10.1016/s0163-4453(97)92357-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A retrospective analysis was done to examine whether sexual behaviour was associated with meningococcal carriage. Over the 4 month period from January to April 1994, 136 (27.4%) of the 496 consecutive new/re-registered genito-urinary medicine clinic attenders showed meningococcal carriage. Two (15.4%) of 13 homosexual men compared with 134 (27.7%) of 484 heterosexual men and women had evidence of meningococcal carriage. Relative risk (RR) of meningococcal carriage was 1.8 with > 10 lifetime partners and 1.2 with 3-10 partners (P < 0.007). RR with age group of 16-25 was 4.2 and for 26-35 it was 3.5. There was no relationship with meningococcal carriage and pharyngeal symptoms, sexual orientation, intravenous drug use, number of partners per month and orogenital sex. Further longitudinal studies may be of value in order to determine whether a high number of sexual partners is a marker for meningococcal carriage. In addition, further study may show whether there is an increased risk of meningococcal carriage and disease in those who live with meningococcal carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Tayal
- Department of Genito-urinary Medicine, City Hospital Trust, Sunderland District General Hospital, U.K
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20
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21
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Brooks JL, Fallon RJ, Heckels JE. Sequence variation in class 1 outer membrane protein in Neisseria meningitidis isolated from patients with meningococcal infection and close household contacts. FEMS Microbiol Lett 1995; 128:145-50. [PMID: 7750732 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.1995.tb07514.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The meningococcal porA gene encodes the class 1 outer membrane protein which contains the VR1 and VR2 regions responsible for sero-subtype specificity. However, sequence variations may occur within these regions which are not recognised by the currently available subtype antibodies. Since this "silent" microheterogeneity represents a potential hidden source of information, in the current study we have used porA gene sequence analysis to study strains isolated from cases of meningococcal infection and close household contacts. With each of the three subtypes studied, the index cases could be differentiated from each other by sequence variations within at least one of the VR1, VR2 and SV1 regions. In addition, although isolates from close household contacts showed a high degree of homology significant differences could be detected within some family groups. These data demonstrate that it is possible to use sequence information to differentiate between potential sources of infection which appear identical using conventional serological methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Brooks
- Molecular Microbiology Group, University of Southampton Medical School, Southampton General Hospital, UK
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22
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Stanwell-Smith RE, Stuart JM, Hughes AO, Robinson P, Griffin MB, Cartwright K. Smoking, the environment and meningococcal disease: a case control study. Epidemiol Infect 1994; 112:315-28. [PMID: 8150006 PMCID: PMC2271460 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268800057733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This case control study investigated environmental factors in 74 confirmed cases of meningococcal disease (MD). In children aged under 5, passive smoking in the home (30 or more cigarettes daily) was associated with an odds ratio (OR) of 7.5 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46-38.66). ORs increased both with the numbers of cigarettes smoked and with the number of smokers in the household, suggesting a dose-response relationship. MD in this age group was also significantly associated with household overcrowding (more than 1.5 persons per room) (OR 6.0, 95% CI 1.10-32.8), with kisses on the mouth with 4 or more contacts in the previous 2 weeks (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.09-5.56), with exposure to dust from plaster, brick or stone in the previous 2 weeks (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.07-4.65); and with changes in residence (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.0-8.99), marital arguments (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.26-7.17) and legal disputes in the previous 6 months (OR 3.10, 95% CI 1.24-7.78). These associations were independent of social class. Public health measures to lower the prevalence of cigarette smoking by parents of young children may reduce the incidence of MD. The influence of building dust and stressful life events merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Stanwell-Smith
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Bristol and Weston Health Authority
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Isaacs D, Ferson M, Gilbert GL, Grimwood K, McIntyre P. Chemoprophylaxis for Haemophilus and meningococcal infections. Position paper, Royal Australasian College of Physicians. J Paediatr Child Health 1994; 30:9-11. [PMID: 8148204 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1754.1994.tb00556.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D Isaacs
- Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases, Royal Australasian College of Physicians, New South Wales
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24
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Patel MS. Chemoprophylaxis against meningococcal infection. Med J Aust 1993. [DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.1993.tb137758.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mahomed S Patel
- Disease Control Communicable Diseases ControlCentre Department of Health and Community ServicesAlice SpringsNT0871
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25
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Caugant DA, Høiby EA, Rosenqvist E, Frøholm LO, Selander RK. Transmission of Neisseria meningitidis among asymptomatic military recruits and antibody analysis. Epidemiol Infect 1992; 109:241-53. [PMID: 1397113 PMCID: PMC2271914 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268800050196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the occurrence of a case of systemic meningococcal disease in a military camp in Norway, throat cultures and blood samples were collected from 33 healthy individuals belonging to the same troop as the patient (troop A) and from 29 individuals from a different troop (troop B) in the same camp. Serological studies showed that 91% of the recruits had bactericidal antibodies against the disease-causing strain. The isolates of Neisseria meningitidis recovered from the throat cultures were serogrouped, serotyped, and assigned to a clone on the basis of an analysis of the electrophoretic mobilities of 14 metabolic enzymes. None of the 23 carriers in troop A harboured the clone responsible for the case of disease, but 6 carried isolates of the same electrophoretic type, ET-7, which was not identified in any of the 19 carriers of troop B. Individuals in troop A were resampled 2 and 17 weeks after the meningococcal disease episode. Five of the carriers had acquired different clones and one of them changed clone twice in that period. Four of the six newly acquired clones had previously been identified in other carriers of troop A, demonstrating transmission of clones among individuals living and working in close proximity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Caugant
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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