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Meningococcemia due to the 2000 Hajj-associated outbreak strain (Serogroup W-135 ST-11) with immunoreactive

Kei Yamamoto1, Yasuyuki Kato, Takuma Shindo

  • 1Travel Clinic, Disease Control and Prevention Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine.

Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases
|September 20, 2013
PubMed

Insights

The first case of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 sequence type (ST)-11 systemic infection in Japan is reported. This strain can cause serious immunoreactive complications and is globally prevalent due to high carriage rates.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W-135 sequence type (ST)-11 is a globally significant pathogen.
  • This strain has been associated with major outbreaks, including among Hajj pilgrims.
  • Understanding its epidemiology in new regions is crucial for public health.

Observation:

  • A 44-year-old Japanese woman presented with symptoms of N. meningitidis bacteremia.
  • The causative agent was identified as serogroup W-135 ST-11 using molecular methods.
  • The patient later developed pericarditis, polyarthritis, and tenosynovitis.

Findings:

  • This represents the first documented case of systemic infection with N. meningitidis W-135 ST-11 in Japan.
  • The identified strain is identical to the one responsible for the 2000 Hajj pilgrim outbreak.
  • The patient's complications are consistent with known immunoreactive sequelae of this strain.

Implications:

  • The global spread of N. meningitidis W-135 ST-11 highlights the importance of international surveillance.
  • Chronic carriage and high transmission rates necessitate vigilance for imported cases.
  • This case underscores the need for awareness of this pathogen in non-endemic regions.

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