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Published on: November 5, 2019
Emergence and disappearance of W135 meningococcal disease
A Wilder-Smith1, A Chow, K-T Goh
1Department of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology/Public Health, National University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore. epvws@pacific.net.sg
Abstract:
W135 meningococcal disease was imported into Singapore in 2000 via Hajj pilgrims. Previous studies have showed sustained carriage of W135 with the potential for further transmission within communities. We therefore set out to determine whether W135 meningococcal disease would become endemic in Singapore after its introduction in 2000. Cases occurred until 2003, but no further cases have been reported since 2004.
Insights
Meningococcal disease W135, introduced in Singapore in 2000, caused cases until 2003. No further W135 meningococcal disease cases have been reported since 2004, suggesting it did not become endemic.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135 (MenW135) was identified in Singapore in 2000.
- Hajj pilgrims were the likely source of introduction.
- Previous research indicated sustained carriage and potential for community transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for W135 meningococcal disease to become endemic in Singapore.
- To track the incidence of W135 meningococcal disease following its introduction.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance data analysis.
- Retrospective case review.
Main Results:
- W135 meningococcal disease cases were reported in Singapore between 2000 and 2003.
- No cases of W135 meningococcal disease were reported after 2004.
Conclusions:
- W135 meningococcal disease did not become endemic in Singapore.
- The introduction of W135 did not lead to sustained community transmission in Singapore.
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