[Systemic meningococcal disease in the Norwegian Army]

An outline of aspects of meningococcal disease relevant to The Norwegian armed forces during the last years is given. Epidemiological observations are described as well as ongoing trials with the Norwegian serogroup B outer membrane complex vaccine. These trials are parallel to civilian trials in teenagers. In accordance with the new Norwegian civil guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of meningococcal disease stress is laid on early symptoms of the disease and early treatment (drawing of a blood culture and subsequent prompt parenteral penicillin therapy in the camp when probable meningococcal disease is the case and the estimated transportation time to hospital exceeds about 30 min).