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Age incidence of meningococcal infection England and Wales, 1984-1991
1Public Health Laboratory Service, Withington Hospital, Manchester, U.K.
Abstract:
The age incidence of meningococcal infections occurring between 1984 and 1991 in England and Wales was determined from data submitted with isolates to the Meningococcal Reference Laboratory for England and Wales. The incidence was maximum at 6 months of age and thereafter declined sharply to the age of 4 years. It was followed by a small secondary peak at 17-18 years. There was a relative excess of group B infections in the early months of life and, although group B and group C infections both peaked at 6 months of age, the latter did not decline until after the age of 9 months. Certain strains of meningococci were more likely to be associated with disease in older children and young adults.
Insights
Meningococcal infections in England and Wales peaked at 6 months, declining sharply by age 4. A secondary peak occurred in adolescents, with specific strains linked to disease in older individuals.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Meningococcal infections pose a significant public health risk, particularly in young children.
- Understanding the age-specific incidence is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the age-specific incidence of meningococcal infections in England and Wales between 1984 and 1991.
- To analyze the age distribution of different serogroups (B and C) and identify strain-specific associations with age.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of laboratory-submitted isolates from England and Wales.
- Calculation of age-specific incidence rates for meningococcal infections.
Main Results:
- The highest incidence of meningococcal infections was observed at 6 months of age, with a sharp decline by age 4.
- A secondary peak in incidence was noted in adolescents aged 17-18 years.
- Group B infections were more prevalent in early infancy, while group C infections declined later than group B.
Conclusions:
- Meningococcal disease incidence exhibits distinct age patterns, with infants and adolescents being key risk groups.
- Serogroup B and C infections show different age-related dynamics.
- Specific meningococcal strains are associated with disease in distinct age demographics, informing public health interventions.