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Meningococcal disease--outbreak in Delhi.
Anupam Sachdeva1, Shyam Kukreja, Vinita Jain
1Department of Pediatrics, Center for Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi 110060. anupamace@yahoo.co.in
Indian Pediatrics
|July 5, 2005
Summary
Meningococcal disease outbreaks in India, particularly Delhi, show a recurring pattern. Recent epidemics highlight high case fatality rates, predominantly affecting young adult males in crowded urban areas.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Meningococcal disease presents endemic and epidemic patterns globally.
- India experiences sporadic cases and regular epidemics of meningococcal disease.
- Historical epidemics in Delhi (1935, 1966, 1985-86) demonstrate significant impact, with the last recording a 13% case fatality rate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current outbreak of meningococcal disease in Delhi.
- To identify demographic and geographic risk factors associated with the disease.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of outbreak data.
- Case investigation and demographic profiling.
Main Results:
- The current outbreak involves approximately 400 cases.
- The case fatality rate is around 10%.
- Affected individuals are predominantly males aged 21-30, residing in densely populated inner city areas.
Conclusions:
- Meningococcal disease continues to pose a significant public health threat in Delhi.
- The current outbreak underscores the need for targeted interventions in high-risk populations and areas.
- Understanding transmission dynamics in crowded urban settings is crucial for future control strategies.