Meningococcal disease in the Republic of Ireland: 1995

Two hundred and nine culture confirmed cases of meningococcal disease were reported in the Republic of Ireland in 1995, using a new laboratory based surveillance system. The reported rate of 5.9/100000 population is one of the highest in western Europe, but the rate differed widely between regions. Fifty-three per cent of cases were female. Half of the cases occurred in four months (January, February, March, and December). Nineteen cases (9%) died. The highest age specific incidence was in infancy (under 1 year). Infections with serogroup B accounted for 105 cases (54%) and serogroup C 87 cases (45%). We estimate that up to 30% of cases of meningococcal disease may be preventable when conjugate meningococcal group C vaccines become available, but cost benefit analyses will be required to determine how they should be employed.