Current global trends in meningococcal disease control, risk groups and vaccination: Consensus of the Global...

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) epidemiology is shifting post-COVID-19 pandemic, with increasing case numbers reported globally.
• A re-emergence of the Hajj strain sublineage (serogroup W; ST-11 clonal complex) is noted, linked to travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Atypical IMD presentations, such as meningococcal epiglottitis, are increasingly observed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent trends and epidemiological shifts in invasive meningococcal disease (IMD).
• To discuss current vaccination strategies and recommendations for meningococcal serogroups, including serogroup B (MenB).
• To explore potential novel applications of MenB vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent trends discussed at the Global Meningococcal Initiative (GMI) meeting.
• Analysis of epidemiological data on IMD incidence and serogroup distribution.
• Discussion of current vaccination policies and emerging evidence.

Main Results:

• Increased IMD cases reported in the USA (2023-2024) and rising incidence in other countries.
• Resurgence of serogroup W (ST-11 clonal complex) linked to international travel.
• Identified need for broader meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) immunization for broader IMD reduction.
• Emerging evidence suggests MenB vaccination may protect against Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Conclusions:

• IMD epidemiology is dynamic, requiring ongoing surveillance and adaptation of control strategies.
• Broader MenB vaccination is a key strategy for reducing IMD burden.
• Further research is warranted to explore the protective effects of MenB vaccines against other infections like gonorrhea.