Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 1, 2026
Inducing Meningococcal Meningitis Serogroup C in Mice via Intracisternal Delivery
Published on: November 5, 2019
Epidemiology and Control of Meningococcal Disease in Canada: A Long, Complex, and Unfinished Story
Philippe De Wals1,2,3,4
1Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada.
Abstract:
The epidemiology of meningococcal disease in Canada has been punctuated by outbreaks caused by serogroup A strains in the 1940s, virulent serogroup C clones from 1985 to 2001, a serogroup B clone in Quebec from 2003 to 2014, and more recently a W clone in British Columbia. Region- and province-wide immunization campaigns have been implemented to control these outbreaks using meningococcal C polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines, a quadrivalent ACWY conjugate vaccine, and a serogroup B protein-based vaccine. Meningococcal C conjugate vaccines have been included in routine immunization programs for children, and ACWY conjugate vaccines have been included in school-based programs for adolescents in most jurisdictions. In contrast, serogroup B protein-based vaccines were only recommended and used for high-risk individuals and to control outbreaks. Currently, the immunization schedules adopted in provinces and territories are not uniform. This is not explained by notable epidemiologic differences. Publicly funded immunization programs are the result of a complex decision-making process. Political factors including public opinion, media attention, interest groups' advocacy campaigns, decision-makers' priorities and budgetary constraints have played important roles in shaping meningococcal programs in Canada, and this should be recognized. As the recent occurrence of outbreaks caused by virulent W clones shows, continued investments in epidemiological surveillance at both the provincial and national levels are necessary, so there can be early warning and informed decisions can be made.
Insights
Meningococcal disease outbreaks in Canada have been managed with various vaccines, but inconsistent immunization schedules persist. Political factors, not just epidemiology, influence public health decisions, necessitating ongoing surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Immunization Policy
Background:
- Canada has experienced recurrent meningococcal disease outbreaks due to diverse serogroups (A, C, B, W).
- Immunization campaigns have utilized polysaccharide, conjugate (MenC, ACWY), and protein-based (MenB) vaccines.
- Current provincial and territorial immunization schedules for meningococcal vaccines are not uniform.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the historical epidemiology of meningococcal disease in Canada.
- To examine the evolution and implementation of meningococcal vaccination strategies.
- To identify factors influencing the non-uniformity of public immunization programs.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical epidemiological data on meningococcal disease outbreaks in Canada.
- Analysis of implemented immunization campaigns and vaccine types used.
- Assessment of factors contributing to variations in public immunization schedules.
Main Results:
- Significant outbreaks caused by serogroups A, C, B, and W have occurred historically.
- MenC and ACWY conjugate vaccines are widely incorporated into routine programs, while MenB vaccines are restricted.
- Immunization schedule disparities are not solely explained by epidemiological differences, with political and economic factors playing a role.
Conclusions:
- Non-uniform meningococcal immunization schedules in Canada are influenced by complex decision-making processes, including political factors.
- Continued investment in epidemiological surveillance is crucial for early detection and informed public health interventions.
- Recognizing the impact of political and societal factors is essential for optimizing future vaccination programs.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
01:25Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
01:26Principles of Disease Surveillance
01:29Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth