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Meningococcal meningitis in an industrial area adjoining Surat City--some clinico-epidemiological aspects
Abstract:
An industrial area with poor sanitation and inhabited by migrant, male predominant population, situated South to Surat City, experienced an outbreak of pyogenic meningitis during 1985-87. A total of 197 cases of meningitis with 34 deaths were reported during a period of 1 1/2 years. Neisseria meningitidis was the predominant pathogen isolated from 66 out of 138 CSF samples. Recently migrated males of productive age groups drawn from the States of Uttar Pradesh and Orissa were predominantly affected. Male to female ratio was found to be 7.2:1. Nearly 2/3rd of the cases were reported during the dry colder months of winter and spring. Pregnancy and childbirth appeared to be important predisposing factors in females. Nine cases were reported from the family contacts of cases. Majority of the cases were labourers doing manual work.
Insights
A pyogenic meningitis outbreak in Surat, India, primarily affected migrant laborers. Neisseria meningitidis was the main cause, with cases peaking in winter and spring.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- An industrial area south of Surat City faced a pyogenic meningitis outbreak between 1985-1987.
- The region was characterized by poor sanitation and a predominantly migrant, male population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology of the pyogenic meningitis outbreak.
- Identify the causative pathogen and risk factors associated with the outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 197 reported meningitis cases and 34 deaths.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample analysis to identify the predominant pathogen.
Main Results:
- Neisseria meningitidis was identified in 66 of 138 CSF samples.
- The outbreak predominantly affected recently migrated males of productive age, with a male-to-female ratio of 7.2:1.
- Two-thirds of cases occurred during dry, colder months; pregnancy and childbirth were predisposing factors in females.
Conclusions:
- Neisseria meningitidis caused the Surat meningitis outbreak, disproportionately affecting migrant male laborers.
- Poor sanitation, demographic factors, and seasonal influences contributed to the outbreak's epidemiology.