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Published on: November 5, 2019
Meningococcal infections in the Hamilton area during 1978
Canadian Medical Association Journal
|March 8, 1980
Summary
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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