1
|
Mohammed H, McMillan M, Marshall HS. Social and behavioral predictors of two-doses 4CMenB vaccine series among adolescents enrolled in a cluster randomized controlled trial in Australia. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 18:1953345. [PMID: 34346833 PMCID: PMC8920203 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1953345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine social and behavioral predictors of completing a course of 4CMenB vaccine in adolescents in a parallel cluster randomized controlled trial enrolling secondary school students (approximately 15–18 years of age) in South Australia. Participating schools were randomized to vaccination at baseline (intervention) or 12 months (control). Students assigned to the intervention group were excluded because they have received the first dose of 4CMenB vaccine at baseline. Logistic regression models examined factors associated with non-vaccination or incomplete 4CMenB doses. The study population comprised 11391 students. Overall, 8.3% (n = 946) received no doses and 91.7% (n = 10445) at least one dose. Of 10445 students who initiated their primary dose, 1334 (12.8%) did not complete the two-dose course. The final adjusted model indicated factors associated with non-vaccination in school students were older age (adjusted odds ratio; aOR 7.83, 95% CI: 4.13–14.82), smoking cigarettes (aOR 3.24, 95% CI: 1.93–5.44), exposure to passive smoke (aOR 2.64, 95% CI: 1.48–4.71), Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (aOR 1.77, 95% CI: 1.23–2.55), smoking water pipes (aOR 1.94, 95% CI:1.28–2.92), low socioeconomic status (aOR 1.77, 95% CI:1.21–2.60), attending government schools (aOR 1.76, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.43) and participating in intimate kissing (aOR 1.40, 95% CI:1.10–1.79). Multivariable analysis for incomplete vaccination yielded similar findings. Social and behavioral predictors of non-vaccination or incomplete MenB doses were also known risk factors for carriage of Neisseria meningitidis. Immunization strategies to improve MenB vaccination completion need to be tailored to social behavior of adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hassen Mohammed
- Vaccinology and Immunology Research Trials Unit, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mark McMillan
- Vaccinology and Immunology Research Trials Unit, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Helen S Marshall
- Vaccinology and Immunology Research Trials Unit, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pilat EK, Stuart JM, French CE. Tobacco smoking and meningococcal disease in adolescents and young adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Infect 2021; 82:135-144. [PMID: 33610686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systematically review the evidence on the association between active and passive tobacco smoking and invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in adolescents and young adults aged 15-to-24-years. METHODS Electronic searches were conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science to June 2020. Reference lists were hand-searched. Two independent reviewers screened articles for eligibility. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies - of Interventions tool. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models. RESULTS Of 312 records identified, 13 studies were included. Five studies provided data on the association between active smoking and IMD in the target age group; pooled odds ratio (OR): 1.45 (95% CI: 0.93-2.26). The overall OR, including eight studies with a wider participant age range, was 1.45 (95% CI: 1.12-1.88). For passive smoking, the equivalent ORs were 1.56 (95% CI: 1.09-2.25) and 1.30 (95% CI: 1.06-1.59) respectively. All studies were at high risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS Active and passive smoking may be associated with IMD in adolescents and young adults. Since active smoking has also been linked to meningococcal carriage, and passive smoking to IMD in young children, smoking cessation should be encouraged to reduce transmission and IMD risk in all ages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellie K Pilat
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, United Kingdom.
| | - James M Stuart
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, United Kingdom.
| | - Clare E French
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, United Kingdom; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Taha MK, Weil-Olivier C, Bouée S, Emery C, Nachbaur G, Pribil C, Loncle-Provot V. Risk factors for invasive meningococcal disease: a retrospective analysis of the French national public health insurance database. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:1858-1866. [PMID: 33449835 PMCID: PMC8115611 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1849518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination of at-risk populations against Neisseria meningitidis is an important strategy to prevent invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). The objective of this study was to characterize preexisting risk factors in patients with IMD and to compare their relative importance. This case-control analysis was performed in the French national public health insurance database (SNDS). Cases consisted of all people hospitalized for IMD in France over a six-year period (2012–2017). Controls were matched by age, gender, and district of residence. Medical risk factors were identified from ICD-10 codes in the SNDS. Socioeconomic risk factors studied were low household income and social deprivation of the municipality of residence. Associations of these risk factors with hospitalization for IMD were quantified as odds ratios (ORs) between cases and controls with their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The medical risk factors showing the most robust associations were congenital immunodeficiency (OR: 39.1 [95%CI: 5.1–299], acquired immunodeficiency (10.3 [4.5–24.0]) and asplenia/hyposplenia (6.7 [3.7–14.7]). In addition, certain chronic medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders (5.4 [2.5–11.8]), hemophilia (4.7 [1.8–12.2]) and severe chronic respiratory disorders (4.3 [3.1–6.2]) were also strongly associated, as was low household income (1.68 [1.49–1.80]). In conclusion, this study has documented potential risk factors associated with hospitalization for IMD in a large and comprehensive sample of individuals with IMD in France. Several of the risk factors identified may help identify groups who could benefit from targeted prevention measures (such as vaccination) in order to reduce the burden of IMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Céline Pribil
- Vaccine Medical Department, GSK, Rueil-Malmaison, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Spyromitrou-Xioufi P, Tsirigotaki M, Ladomenou F. Risk factors for meningococcal disease in children and adolescents: a systematic review and META-analysis. Eur J Pediatr 2020; 179:1017-1027. [PMID: 32405695 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-020-03658-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in children worldwide. A systemic review in PubMed and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register was performed for articles on risk factors for IMD in children and adolescents published during a 20-year period (19/09/1998 to 19/09/2018). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established and applied. The data were meta-analyzed using random-effect model and the results were presented on forest plots separately for each risk factor. We identified 12,559 studies (duplicates removed). Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened and finally, six studies (five case-control and one cohort study) were included in qualitative synthesis, five in meta-analysis. The median age of meningococcal disease (MD) cases was 72.2 months (0-19 years). Household crowding, smoking exposure, close relationships, and recent respiratory tract infections conferred a more than twofold risk for IMD in exposed individuals compared to controls [overcrowded living OR 2.52 (95% CI 1.75-3.63), exposure to smoke OR 2.10 (95% CI 1.00-4.39), kissing OR 2.00 (95% CI: 1.13-3.51), and recent respiratory tract infection OR 3.13 (95% CI 2.02-4.86)]. Attendance of religious events was associated with a decreased risk [0.47 (95% CI, 0.28-0.79)].Conclusion: Our review highlights the importance of individual characteristics as risk factors for IMD in childhood and adolescence. Preventive policies may consider individual as well as social-environmental factors to target individuals at risk.What is Known:• Close relationships, household crowding, and recent respiratory tract infections are major risk factors for IMD.• Passive smoking is a major risk factor for IMD.What is New:• Intimate kissing, household crowding, and passive smoking were found to double the risk of IMD.• Recent respiratory tract infections almost tripled the risk for IMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Tsirigotaki
- Department of Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Heraklion University Hospital, Crete, Greece
| | - Fani Ladomenou
- Department of Pediatrics, Venizeleion General Hospital, Crete, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Neisseria meningitidis, a gram-negative diplococcus, is typically an asymptomatic coloniser of the oropharynx and nasopharynx. Passage of N. meningitidis into the bloodstream can cause invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), a potentially life-threatening illness with rapid onset that generally presents as meningitis, septicemia or both. Serogroup W IMD has been increasing in prevalence in recent years, and observations suggest that it may present with atypical signs and symptoms. Herein, a literature search was performed to identify trends in atypical serogroup W IMD presentation in order to review those that are most prevalent. Findings indicate that the most prevalent atypical presentations of serogroup W IMD include acute gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, septic arthritis and bacteremic pneumonia or severe upper respiratory tract infection, notably epiglottitis. Atypical clinical presentation is associated with higher case fatality rates and can lead to misdiagnoses. Such risks highlight the need for clinicians to consider IMD in their differential diagnoses of patients with acute GI symptoms, septic arthritis or bacteremic pneumonia, primarily in regions where serogroup W is prevalent.
Collapse
|
7
|
Santos-Neto JF, Ferreira VM, Feitosa CA, Martinez-Silveira MS, Campos LC. Carriage prevalence of Neisseria meningitidis in the Americas in the 21st century: a systematic review. Braz J Infect Dis 2019; 23:254-267. [PMID: 31344352 PMCID: PMC9427833 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neisseria meningitidis is a bacterium that colonizes the human nasopharynx and is transmitted by respiratory droplets from asymptomatic or symptomatic carriers. Occasionally, the pathogen invades the mucosa and enters the bloodstream, causing invasive meningococcal disease, a life-threatening infection. While meningococcal colonization is the first step in the development of invasive disease, the risk factors that predict progression from asymptomatic to symptomatic status are not well-known. The present report aimed to describe the prevalence of N. meningitidis carriers throughout the Americas, emphasizing the risk factors associated with carrier status, as well as the most prevalent serogroups in each studied population. We conducted a systematic review by searching for original studies in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, LILACS and SciELO databases, published between 2001 and 2018. Exclusion criteria were articles published in a review format, case studies, case control studies, investigations involving animal models, and techniques or publications that did not address the prevalence of asymptomatic carriers in an American country. A total of 784 articles were identified, of which 23 were selected. The results indicate that the highest prevalence rates are concentrated in Cuba (31.9%), the United States (24%), and Brazil (21.5%), with increased prevalence found among adolescents and young adults, specifically university students and males. The present systematic review was designed to support epidemiological surveillance and prevention measures to aid in the formulation of strategies designed to control the transmission of meningococci in a variety of populations and countries throughout the Americas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco Santos-Neto
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz - FIOCRUZ, Salvador, BA, Brazil; Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Viviane Matos Ferreira
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz - FIOCRUZ, Salvador, BA, Brazil; Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
van Kessel F, van den Ende C, Oordt-Speets AM, Kyaw MH. Outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis in non-African countries over the last 50 years: a systematic review. J Glob Health 2019; 9:010411. [PMID: 30937163 PMCID: PMC6441124 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.09.010411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, leading to substantial mortality and severe morbidity; with serogroups A, B, C, W135, X and Y most significant in causing disease. An outbreak is defined as multiple cases of the same serogroup occurring in a population over a short time-period. A systematic review was performed to gain insight into outbreaks of meningococcal disease and to describe the temporal pattern over the last 50 years in non-African countries. Methods PubMed and EMBASE were searched for English-language publications on outbreaks of meningococcal disease in non-African countries between January 1966 and July 2017, with an additional grey literature search. Articles and reports were considered eligible if they reported confirmed meningococcal outbreak cases, included the region, number of cases, and the start and end dates of the outbreak. Data on outbreaks was stratified by geographical region in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) regional classification, and case-fatality rates (CFRs) were calculated. Results Of the identified publications, 3067 were screened and 73 included, reporting data from 83 outbreaks. The majority of outbreaks were identified in the regions of the Americas (41/83 outbreaks), followed by the European region (30/83 outbreaks). In each of the Western Pacific, Eastern Mediterranean, and South-East Asian regions there were <10 outbreaks reported. The predominant serogroup in the majority of outbreaks was serogroup C (61%), followed by serogroup B (29%), serogroup A (5%) and serogroup W135 (4%). Outbreaks showed a peak in the colder months of both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Of the 54 outbreaks where CFR was calculable for all outbreak cases, it ranged from 0%-80%. Conclusions These data present a retrospective view of the patterns for meningococcal disease outbreaks in non-African countries, and provide valuable data for monitoring future changes in disease epidemiology and informing preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Femke van Kessel
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Moe H Kyaw
- Sanofi Pasteur, Swiftwater, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
O'Driscoll DN, Greene CM, Molloy EJ. Immune function? A missing link in the gender disparity in preterm neonatal outcomes. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2018; 13:1061-1071. [PMID: 28972799 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2017.1386555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In neonatology, males exhibit a more severe disease course and poorer prognosis in many pathological states when compared to females. Perinatal brain injury, respiratory morbidity, and sepsis, among other complications, preferentially affect males. Preterm neonates (born <37 weeks gestation) display a particularly marked sexual disparity in pathology, especially at the borders of viability. The sex biases in preterm neonatal outcomes and underlying multifactorial mechanisms have been incompletely explored. Sex-specific clinical phenomena may be partially explained by intrinsic differences in immune function. The distinct immune system of preterm neonates renders this patient population vulnerable, and it is increasingly important to consider biological sex in disease processes and to strive for improved outcomes for both sexes. Areas covered: We discuss the cellular responses and molecular intermediates in immune function which are strongly dependent on sex-specific factors such as the genetic and hormonal milieu of premature birth and consider novel findings in a clinical context. Expert commentary: The role of immune function in the manifestation of sex-specific disease manifestations and outcomes in preterm neonates is a critical prognostic variable. Further mechanistic elucidation will yield valuable translational and clinical information of disease processes in preterm neonates which may be harnessed for modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David N O'Driscoll
- a Neonatology , National Maternity Hospital , Dublin , Ireland.,b Pediatrics, Trinity College, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences , The University of Dublin, National Children's Hospital, AMNCH , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- c Clinical Microbiology , Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Eleanor J Molloy
- a Neonatology , National Maternity Hospital , Dublin , Ireland.,b Pediatrics, Trinity College, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences , The University of Dublin, National Children's Hospital, AMNCH , Dublin , Ireland.,d Neonatology , Coombe Women and Infants' University Hospital , Dublin , Ireland.,e Neonatology , Our Lady's Children's Hospital Crumlin , Dublin , Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Breakwell L, Whaley M, Khan UI, Bandy U, Alexander-Scott N, Dupont L, Vanner C, Chang HY, Vuong JT, Martin S, MacNeil JR, Wang X, Meyer SA. Meningococcal carriage among a university student population - United States, 2015. Vaccine 2017; 36:29-35. [PMID: 29183735 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several outbreaks of serogroup B meningococcal disease have occurred among university students in recent years. In the setting of high coverage of the quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine and prior to widespread use of serogroup B meningococcal vaccines among adolescents, we conducted surveys to characterize the prevalence and molecular characteristics of meningococcal carriage among university students. METHODS Two cross-sectional oropharyngeal carriage surveys were conducted among undergraduates at a Rhode Island university. Isolates were characterized using slide agglutination, real-time polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR), and whole genome sequencing. Adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using Poisson regression to determine risk factors for carriage. RESULTS A total of 1837 oropharyngeal specimens were obtained from 1478 unique participants. Overall carriage prevalence was 12.7-14.6% during the two survey rounds, with 1.8-2.6% for capsular genotype B, 0.9-1.0% for capsular genotypes C, W, or Y, and 9.9-10.8% for nongroupable strains by rt-PCR. Meningococcal carriage was associated with being male, smoking, party or club attendance, recent antibiotic use (inverse correlation), and recent respiratory infections. CONCLUSIONS In this university setting, the majority of meningococcal carriage was due to nongroupable strains, followed by serogroup B. Further evaluation is needed to understand the dynamics of serogroup B carriage and disease among university students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Breakwell
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States; Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Melissa Whaley
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Unab I Khan
- University Health Services, Brown University, 13 Brown Street, Providence, RI 02906, United States
| | - Utpala Bandy
- Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908, United States
| | | | - Lynn Dupont
- University Health Services, Brown University, 13 Brown Street, Providence, RI 02906, United States
| | - Cindy Vanner
- Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908, United States
| | - How-Yi Chang
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Jeni T Vuong
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Stacey Martin
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Jessica R MacNeil
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Xin Wang
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States
| | - Sarah A Meyer
- Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch, Division of Bacterial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Quiambao BP, Bavdekar A, Dubey AP, Jain H, Kolhe D, Bianco V, Miller JM, Van der Wielen M. Antibody persistence up to 5 y after vaccination with a quadrivalent meningococcal ACWY-tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine in adolescents. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2017; 13:636-644. [PMID: 28152332 PMCID: PMC5360140 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2016.1248009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term protection against meningococcal disease relies on antibody persistence after vaccination. We report antibody persistence up to 5 y after vaccination in adolescents who received a single dose of either meningococcal serogroups A, C, W, Y tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine (MenACWY-TT, Pfizer) or MenACWY polysaccharide vaccine (MenPS, GSK Vaccines) at the age of 11-17 y in the randomized controlled primary study NCT00464815. In this phase III, open, controlled, multi-center persistence follow-up study conducted in India and the Philippines (NCT00974363), antibody persistence was evaluated by a serum bactericidal antibody assay using rabbit complement (rSBA) yearly, up to year 5 after vaccination. Serious adverse events (SAEs) related to study participation were recorded. Five years after a single dose of MenACWY-TT, the percentage of participants (N = 236) with rSBA titers ≥1:8 was 97.5% for serogroup A, 88.6% for serogroup C, 86.0% for serogroup W and 96.6% for serogroup Y. The percentages in the MenPS group (N = 86) were 93.0%, 87.1%, 34.9% and 66.3%, respectively. Exploratory analysis indicated a higher percentage of subjects with rSBA titers ≥1:8 for serogroups W and Y, and higher rSBA geometric mean antibody titers for serogroups A, W and Y in the MenACWY-TT group than the MenPS group at each time point (years 3, 4 and 5). No differences between groups were observed for serogroup C. No SAEs related to study participation were reported. In conclusion, the results of this follow-up study indicate that antibodies persisted up to 5 y after a single dose of MenACWY-TT in adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz P Quiambao
- a Clinical Research Division , Research Institute for Tropical Medicine , Alabang, Muntinlupa City , Philippines
| | - Ashish Bavdekar
- b K.E.M Hospital, Sardar Moodliar Road , Pune , Maharashtra , India
| | - Anand Prakash Dubey
- c Department of Pediatrics , Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital , New Delhi , India
| | | | - Devayani Kolhe
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Véronique Bianco
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Jacqueline M Miller
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Marie Van der Wielen
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Banzhoff A. Multicomponent meningococcal B vaccination (4CMenB) of adolescents and college students in the United States. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN VACCINES 2017; 5:3-14. [PMID: 28344804 PMCID: PMC5349334 DOI: 10.1177/2051013616681365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Meningococcal disease is rare, easily misdiagnosed, and potentially deadly. Diagnosis in the early stages is difficult and the disease often progresses extremely rapidly. In North America, the incidence of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is highest in infants and young children, with a secondary peak in adolescents, a population predominantly responsible for the carriage of disease. Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB) accounts for a large proportion of meningococcal disease in North America, with documented outbreaks in three universities in the United States (US) during 2008-2013. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against this aggressive disease that has a narrow timeframe for diagnosis and treatment. 4CMenB is a multi-component vaccine against MenB which contains four antigenic components. We describe in detail the immunogenicity and safety profile of 4CMenB based on results from four clinical trials; the use of 4CMenB to control MenB outbreaks involving vaccination at two US colleges during outbreaks in 2013-2014; and the use of 4CMenB in a Canadian mass vaccination campaign to control the spread of MenB disease. We discuss the reasons why adolescents should be vaccinated against MenB, by examining both the peak in disease incidence and carriage. We consider whether herd protection may be attained for MenB, by discussing published models and comparing with meningitis C (MenC) vaccines. In conclusion, MenB vaccines are now available in the US for people aged 10-25 years, representing an important opportunity to reduce the incidence of IMD in the country across the whole population, and more locally to combat MenB outbreaks.
Collapse
|
13
|
A Case-Control Study on the Risk Factors for Meningococcal Disease among Children in Greece. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158524. [PMID: 27351742 PMCID: PMC4924850 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to identify environmental or genetic risk factors that are associated with invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in children in Greece. Methods A case-control study was performed in 133 children (44 cases and 89 controls) aged between 0–14 years, who were hospitalized in a children's hospital in Athens. Demographics and possible risk factors were collected by the use of a structured questionnaire. To investigate the association of mannose binding lectin (MBL) with IMD, a frequency analysis of the haplotypes of the MBL2 gene and quantitative measurement of MBL serum protein levels were performed using Nanogen NanoChipR 400 technology and immuno-enzyme techniques, respectively. Results The multivariate analysis revealed that changes in a child's life setting (relocation or vacation, OR = 7.16), paternal smoking (OR = 4.51), upper respiratory tract infection within the previous month (OR = 3.04) and the density of people in the house/100m2 (OR = 3.16), were independent risk factors associated with IMD. Overall 18.8% of patients had a MBL2 genotype with low functionality compared to 10.1% of healthy controls, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.189). Conclusion Prevention strategies aimed at reducing parental smoking and other risk factors identified in this study could decrease the risk of IMD among children in Greece.
Collapse
|
14
|
Quiambao BP, Jain H, Bavdekar A, Dubey AP, Kolhe D, Bianco V, Van der Wielen M, Miller JM. Persistence of the immune response two years after vaccination with quadrivalent meningococcal ACWY-tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine (MenACWY-TT) in Asian adolescents. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 12:2162-2168. [PMID: 27152501 PMCID: PMC4994734 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2016.1163455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive meningococcal disease is a serious infection that is most often vaccine-preventable. Long-term protection relies on antibody persistence. Here we report the persistence of the immune response 2 y post-vaccination with a quadrivalent meningococcal serogroups A, C, W, Y tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine (MenACWY-TT) compared with a MenACWY polysaccharide vaccine (Men-PS), in Asian adolescents aged 11–17 y. We also report a re-analysis of data from the primary vaccination study. This persistence study (NCT00974363) conducted in India and the Philippines included subjects who previously (study NCT00464815) received a single dose of MenACWY-TT or Men-PS. Persistence of functional antibodies was measured in 407 MenACWY-TT recipients and 132 Men-PS recipients (according-to-protocol cohort) using a rabbit complement serum bactericidal assay (rSBA, cut-off 1:8). Vaccine-related serious adverse events (SAEs) occurring since the end of the initial vaccination study were retrospectively recorded. Two y post-vaccination ≥99.3% of adolescents who received MenACWY-TT had persisting antibody titers ≥1:8 against each vaccine serogroup. Antibody persistence was higher (exploratory analysis) in the MenACWY-TT group than the Men-PS group in terms of rSBA titers ≥1:8 for serogroups W and Y; rSBA titers ≥1:128 for serogroups A, W and Y; and rSBA GMTs for serogroups A, W and Y; and was lower in the MenACWY-TT group for rSBA GMTs for serogroup C. No vaccine-related SAEs were reported. The results of this study indicated that antibodies persisted for at least 2 y in the majority of adolescents after vaccination with a single dose of MenACWY-TT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz P Quiambao
- a Clinical Research Division, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine , Alabang, Muntinlupa City , Philippines
| | | | | | - Anand Prakash Dubey
- d Department of Pediatrics , Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital , New Delhi , India
| | - Devayani Kolhe
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Véronique Bianco
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Marie Van der Wielen
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| | - Jacqueline M Miller
- e GSK Vaccines, Bangalore, India; Wavre, Belgium; and King of Prussia , PA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Vetter V, Baxter R, Denizer G, Sáfadi MAP, Silfverdal SA, Vyse A, Borrow R. Routinely vaccinating adolescents against meningococcus: targeting transmission & disease. Expert Rev Vaccines 2016; 15:641-58. [PMID: 26651380 PMCID: PMC4841019 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2016.1130628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents have the highest rates of meningococcal carriage and transmission. Interrupting the adolescent habitat in order to reduce carriage and transmission within adolescents and to other age groups could help to control meningococcal disease at a population level. Compared to immunization strategies restricted to young children, a strategy focused on adolescents may have more profound and long-lasting indirect impacts, and may be more cost effective. Despite challenges in reaching this age-group, experience with other vaccines show that high vaccine coverage of adolescents is attainable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roger Baxter
- b Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center , Oakland , CA , U.S.A
| | | | - Marco A P Sáfadi
- c Department of Pediatrics , FCM da Santa Casa de Sáo Paulo , Sáo Paulo , Brazil
| | | | - Andrew Vyse
- a GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Vaccines , Wavre , Belgium
| | - Ray Borrow
- e Vaccine Evaluation Unit , Public Health England , Manchester , U.K
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The current situation of meningococcal disease in Latin America and updated Global Meningococcal Initiative (GMI) recommendations. Vaccine 2015; 33:6529-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.10.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
17
|
La vaccination anti-méningococcique C chez les étudiants d’une faculté de médecine : couverture et perceptions. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
18
|
|
19
|
Papaevangelou V, Spyridis N. MenACWY-TT vaccine for active immunization against invasive meningococcal disease. Expert Rev Vaccines 2012; 11:523-37. [PMID: 22827239 DOI: 10.1586/erv.12.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Meningococcal disease remains a significant global cause of morbidity and mortality despite the availability of polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines. The implementation of monovalent meningococcal serogroup C vaccine in developed countries has significantly decreased the incidence of meningococcal disease, while the recent introduction of monovalent serogroup A conjugate vaccine in the African meningitis belt aims to reduce the incidence of high endemic disease in this area. Three quadrivalent meningococcal vaccines have already been licensed; a polysaccharide (MenACWY-PS) and two conjugated (MenACWY-DT and MenACWY-CRM) vaccines. An investigational MenACWY-TT vaccine is described in this article. Clinical trials in infants older than 9 months of age, toddlers, children, adolescents and adults have indicated that this vaccine is well tolerated and immunogenic. The inclusion of a spacer molecule coupled with the polysaccharide (for serogroups A and C) and tetanus toxoid as the carrier protein aims to elicit robust immune responses. The tolerability of this vaccine is comparable to that of polysaccharide quadrivalent vaccines and monovalent meningococcal serogroup C vaccines. More importantly, the immunogenicity, antibody persistence and induction of immune memory aim to provide protection to a wide range of susceptible subjects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vassiliki Papaevangelou
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens University, Goudi 11527, Athens, Greece.
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Romero-Gomez MP, Rentero Z, Paño JR, Mingorance J. Bacteraemic pneumonia caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y. Respir Med Case Rep 2011; 5:23-4. [PMID: 26057210 PMCID: PMC3920377 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmedc.2011.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this article, we describe a case of bacteraemic pneumonia caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pilar Romero-Gomez
- Servicio de Microbiología y Parasitología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz Paseo de la Castellana, 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Zaida Rentero
- Servicio de Microbiología y Parasitología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz Paseo de la Castellana, 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose Ramon Paño
- Unidad de Microbiología Clínica y Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz Paseo de la Castellana, 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesus Mingorance
- Servicio de Microbiología y Parasitología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz Paseo de la Castellana, 261, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Harrison LH, Pelton SI, Wilder-Smith A, Holst J, Safadi MAP, Vazquez JA, Taha MK, LaForce FM, von Gottberg A, Borrow R, Plotkin SA. The Global Meningococcal Initiative: recommendations for reducing the global burden of meningococcal disease. Vaccine 2011; 29:3363-71. [PMID: 21376800 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.02.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Revised: 02/08/2011] [Accepted: 02/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Global Meningococcal Initiative (GMI) is composed of an international group of scientists, clinicians and public health officials with expertise in meningococcal immunology, epidemiology and prevention. The primary goal of the GMI is the promotion of the global prevention of invasive meningococcal disease through education and research. The GMI members reviewed global meningococcal disease epidemiology, immunization strategies, and research needs. Over the past decade, substantial advances in meningococcal vaccine development have occurred and much has been learned about prevention from countries that have incorporated meningococcal vaccines into their immunization programs. The burden of meningococcal disease is unknown for many parts of the world because of inadequate surveillance, which severely hampers evidence-based immunization policy. As the field of meningococcal vaccine development advances, global surveillance for meningococcal disease needs to be strengthened in many regions of the world. For countries with meningococcal vaccination policies, research on vaccine effectiveness and impact, including indirect effects, is crucial for informing policy decisions. Each country needs to tailor meningococcal vaccination policy according to individual country needs and knowledge of disease burden. Innovative approaches are needed to introduce and sustain meningococcal vaccination programs in resource-poor settings with a high incidence of meningococcal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee H Harrison
- Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Harrison LH. Epidemiological profile of meningococcal disease in the United States. Clin Infect Dis 2010; 50 Suppl 2:S37-44. [PMID: 20144015 DOI: 10.1086/648963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neisseria meningitidis is a leading cause of bacterial meningitis and other serious infections worldwide. The epidemiological profile of N. meningitidis is highly changeable, with great differences in disease incidence and serogroup distribution. Six serogroups (namely serogroups A, B, C, W-135, X, and Y) are responsible for most cases of meningococcal disease worldwide; the epidemiological profile of disease caused by each serogroup is unique. No vaccine is available for endemic disease caused by serogroup B strains. Two tetravalent (A/C/Y/W-135) meningococcal vaccines are licensed in the United States: a purified polysaccharide product and a polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccine. The conjugate vaccine is recommended for all adolescents, although vaccine coverage remains low, and other groups at high risk of infection. A comprehensive program to prevent invasive meningococcal disease in the United States will require vaccination of infants; several conjugate vaccines for infants may become available in the near future. Broadly protective vaccines for endemic serogroup B disease are also needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee H Harrison
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brigham KS, Sandora TJ. Neisseria meningitidis: epidemiology, treatment and prevention in adolescents. Curr Opin Pediatr 2009; 21:437-43. [PMID: 19421058 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e32832c9668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neisseria meningitidis has been recognized as a cause of serious disease for centuries, but changing epidemiology and advances in treatment and prevention strategies mandate that providers be aware of ongoing developments with regard to this infection. Given the high burden of disease in adolescents, it is important for clinicians to be familiar with current recommendations regarding N. meningitidis. RECENT FINDINGS Adolescents and young adults continue to have the second highest incidence of disease from N. meningitidis. New diagnostic techniques, including polymerase chain reaction, have shown promise for enhancing detection of meningococcal infection in selected scenarios. Whereas most isolates of meningococcus remain penicillin-susceptible, fluoroquinolone resistance has now been documented in the US for the first time. Routine immunization using the meningococcal conjugate vaccine continues to be recommended, despite ongoing concern about a possible association between vaccination and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Active research is ongoing to develop a serogroup B vaccine and meningococcal vaccines that are immunogenic in infants and toddlers. SUMMARY Given the increased incidence of meningococcal infection among adolescents and the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with invasive disease, adolescent health providers must be familiar with current antibiotic treatment and prophylaxis guidelines and ongoing developments regarding meningococcal vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn S Brigham
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard MedicalSchool, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Current world literature. Curr Opin Pediatr 2009; 21:553-60. [PMID: 19622920 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e3283300b10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
26
|
Meningococcal disease and prevention at the Hajj. Travel Med Infect Dis 2009; 7:219-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2009.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|