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[Tests for Neisseria meningitidis in adolescents and adults (recruits)]

S Tyski1, W Grzybowska, G Dulny

  • 1Zakład Antybiotyków i Mikrobiologii Instytutu Leków w Warszawie.

Medycyna Doswiadczalna I Mikrobiologia
|January 9, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Meningococcal carriage rates increase in young adults and military recruits, especially in overcrowded conditions. Studies found higher intermittent carriage in autumn compared to spring.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus) is a significant cause of bacterial meningitis and sepsis.
  • Meningococcal carriage is common in adolescents and young adults, serving as a reservoir for transmission.
  • Understanding carriage dynamics is crucial for predicting and preventing outbreaks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and patterns of Neisseria meningitidis carriage in different age groups and settings.
  • To identify factors influencing meningococcal carriage rates, such as age and living conditions.
  • To analyze seasonal variations in meningococcal carrier status.

Main Methods:

  • Surveillance studies were conducted in military units over multiple seasons (spring and autumn 1998, 1999).
  • Nasal swabs were collected and processed to isolate and identify Neisseria meningitidis strains.
  • Carriage rates, including intermittent and long-term carriage, were determined and compared across different groups and time points.

Main Results:

  • No N. meningitidis was isolated from children aged 14 years.
  • A 14% meningococcal carriage rate was observed in young people aged 17-19 years.
  • Military recruits showed increased carriage rates, particularly in overcrowded conditions, with higher intermittent carriage in autumn compared to spring. Long-term carriage up to 162 days was documented.

Conclusions:

  • Meningococcal carriage prevalence varies significantly with age, with higher rates in adolescents and young adults.
  • Overcrowded living conditions in military settings are associated with increased meningococcal carriage.
  • Seasonal variations influence meningococcal carrier status, with a notable increase in intermittent carriage during autumn.

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