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Meningococcal disease in South Australia: incidence and serogroup distribution 1971-1980
Abstract:
During the ten-year period 1971-80 isolates of meningococci from 85 cases of meningococcal disease (MD) in South Australia, from 66 children, 6 adolescents and 13 adults, were examined. These comprised 69 cases of meningitis and 16 cases of bacteraemia without meningitis. Thirty-three (39%) of all cases of MD occurred in children less than 1 year of age, the median age was 19 months. Serogroup B accounted for 61 (72%) cases of MD, group A seven (8%), group C seven (8%), group W135 five (6%), group Y three (4%) and group X one (1%); in addition there was a single case of Neisseria lactamica infection. The annual prevalence of MD in South Australia for the period was 11 cases per 100000 for children under the age of 2 years and 0.7 cases per 100000 overall. The prevalence was highest in winter (45% cases) and spring (26%) and lowest in summer (13%). The overall mortality rate was 8%. Four of the 21 infants under the age of 6 months died (mortality rate 19%) whereas none of the 32 children aged from 6 months to 14 years died (P = 0.02). Amongst the survivors, three children had deafness, which was bilateral and severe in two.
Insights
Meningococcal disease (MD) primarily affected young children in South Australia between 1971-80, with Serogroup B being the most common cause. Infants under six months faced a significantly higher mortality risk from this bacterial infection.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Meningococcal disease (MD) remains a significant public health concern, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Understanding the epidemiology and serogroup distribution of MD is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and serogroup prevalence of meningococcal disease in South Australia from 1971 to 1980.
- To assess the mortality rates and long-term sequelae associated with MD in different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 85 confirmed cases of meningococcal disease (meningitis and bacteraemia) in South Australia.
- Demographic data, clinical presentations, serogroup identification, seasonal patterns, and outcomes (mortality, sequelae) were examined.
Main Results:
- Serogroup B was the predominant cause (72%) of MD, followed by groups A and C (8% each).
- The highest incidence was observed in children under one year of age, with a median age of 19 months.
- The overall mortality rate was 8%, with a significantly higher rate (19%) in infants under six months compared to older children.
Conclusions:
- Meningococcal disease in South Australia during 1971-80 was characterized by a high prevalence in young children, predominantly caused by Serogroup B.
- Young infants (<6 months) experienced a disproportionately high mortality rate, highlighting a critical vulnerability.
- Deafness was a notable sequela among survivors, emphasizing the potential for long-term disability.