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Meningococcal infections in the Hamilton area during 1978

S Fawcett, M R Achong, C Adeniyi-Jones

    Canadian Medical Association Journal
    |March 8, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    An increase in meningococcal infections, particularly serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis, affected young children. Errors in chemoprophylaxis management were identified, but improved guidelines reduced their frequency.

    Area of Science:

    • Epidemiology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • A notable rise in meningococcal infections occurred in Hamilton during 1978.
    • The majority of affected patients were children under five years old, with a significant mortality rate.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the characteristics of a meningococcal infection outbreak.
    • To evaluate the management of chemoprophylaxis for contacts of infected patients.
    • To identify errors in antibiotic use and timing for prophylaxis.

    Main Methods:

    • Retrospective analysis of 21 meningococcal infection cases admitted to St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton.
    • Review of management practices for hospital and household contacts.
    • Identification of bacterial isolates and their sulfonamide sensitivity.

    Main Results:

    • All Neisseria meningitidis isolates were sulfonamide-sensitive serogroup B.
    • Despite no secondary infections in contacts, significant errors in chemoprophylaxis were observed.
    • Ineffective antibiotics (e.g., penicillin) and delayed administration were common issues.

    Conclusions:

    • Sulfonamide-sensitive serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis was responsible for the outbreak.
    • Suboptimal chemoprophylaxis practices were prevalent, despite no documented secondary cases.
    • Dissemination of evidence-based guidelines led to improved prophylaxis management and reduced errors.

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