Meningococcal vaccination counts and public attention: A time-series study from Türkiye

Meningococcal infections remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood. In Türkiye, meningococcal vaccines are not included in the national immunization program and are mainly administered through optional, self-funded services. This study aimed to examine temporal trends in meningococcal vaccination counts and to assess their association with public attention. This retrospective time-series study included children who received meningococcal vaccination at a tertiary hospital in Istanbul, Türkiye, between January 2024 and June 2025. Demographic and vaccination data were obtained from hospital records. Public attention was assessed using Google Trends data for meningococcal-related search terms. In addition, official public health announcements, professional society statements, and well-child clinic visits were considered as contextual factors. A total of 182 children were vaccinated, with a marked increase observed in 2025. Infants aged 0-24 months accounted for the majority of vaccinations. MenB was administered more frequently than MenACWY, and concomitant administration was common. Increased vaccination activity temporally coincided with peaks in Google Trends search interest, particularly for the term "meningitis," along with concurrent public health announcements. Meningococcal vaccination counts increased during periods of heightened public attention. In settings where vaccines are optional, vaccination demand may be influenced not only by epidemiological factors but also by media visibility, public awareness, and healthcare professionals' recommendations.