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Surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease in Queensland, 2002

Robyn E Pugh1, Helen Smith, Margaret Young

  • 1Communicable Diseases Unit, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland. Robyn.Pugh@health.qld.gov.au

Communicable Diseases Intelligence Quarterly Report
|September 27, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Invasive meningococcal disease surveillance in Queensland showed stable overall cases in 2002, but a concerning rise in serogroup C infections requires monitoring. Early diagnosis by general practitioners significantly speeds hospital admission for patients with suspected meningococcal disease.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) remains a significant public health concern.
  • Surveillance data is crucial for understanding disease trends and informing control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the 2002 epidemiology of IMD in Queensland.
  • To assess trends in IMD cases, serogroups, and outcomes.
  • To evaluate the impact of early diagnosis on patient management.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of notified IMD cases in Queensland during 2002.
  • Comparison with previous years' data to identify trends.
  • Analysis of diagnostic practices and their impact on hospital admission times.

Main Results:

  • 124 cases of IMD were notified in Queensland in 2002, similar to the previous year.
  • Serogroup C accounted for 41% of cases, showing a potential increase needing monitoring.
  • Patients diagnosed early by general practitioners experienced faster hospital admission.

Conclusions:

  • Continued surveillance of IMD in Queensland is essential, particularly for serogroup C.
  • The National Meningococcal C Vaccination Programme's impact requires ongoing monitoring.
  • Enhanced awareness and early recognition of IMD by general practitioners are critical for timely patient referral and improved outcomes.

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