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[Epidemiological characteristics of meningococcal infection in Cuba]
Abstract:
The results of the epidemiological analysis of the morbidity rate in meningococcal infection for 1976-1984 are presented. The maximum rise of morbidity rate, equal to 14.4 per 100000 of population, was observed in 1983. Primarily, the rise of morbidity rate in 1979 was induced by meningococci of two serogroups: C (44.6%) and B (36.4%). The vaccinal prophylaxis of the population, carried out in 1979 with the use of polysaccharide vaccine A + C, did not affect morbidity caused by group B meningococci. The isolation rate of these organisms reached 98.7% from patients and 81.0% from carriers. The characteristic feature of the epidemic process of meningococcal infection in Cuba was a considerable increase in the number of patients under 1 year of age and the absence of seasonal fluctuations in morbidity rate.
Insights
Meningococcal infection peaked in 1983, driven by serogroups C and B. Vaccines targeting group A and C meningococci did not impact group B infections, highlighting a challenge in controlling this disease.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Meningococcal infection poses a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding epidemiological trends is crucial for effective disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological patterns of meningococcal infection in Cuba from 1976 to 1984.
- To assess the impact of vaccination on disease morbidity.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological analysis of morbidity rates.
- Identification of meningococcal serogroups.
- Evaluation of vaccine effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Morbidity peaked in 1983 (14.4 per 100,000).
- Serogroups C (44.6%) and B (36.4%) were primary drivers in 1979.
- Vaccination with polysaccharide vaccine A + C did not reduce morbidity from group B meningococci.
- Group B meningococci were highly prevalent in patients (98.7%) and carriers (81.0%).
- Increased cases in infants under 1 year and lack of seasonal variation were noted.
Conclusions:
- Group B meningococci present a persistent challenge, unaffected by A+C polysaccharide vaccines.
- Specific interventions are needed to address group B meningococcal disease.
- The epidemiology of meningococcal infection in Cuba showed unique characteristics, including a rise in infant cases.