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Serogroup B, electrophoretic type 15 Neisseria meningitidis in Canada
D A Kertesz1, M B Coulthart, J A Ryan
1Bureau of Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Centre for Disease Control, Health Canada, Ottawa.
Abstract:
Invasive meningococcal disease is nationally reportable in Canada. In recent years, a serogroup C genotype, designated electrophoretic type 15 (ET15), has been the most frequently isolated meningococcal genotype in Canada and has caused epidemics across the country. Between August 1993 and September 1995, there were 9 cases of invasive meningococcal disease caused by a variant of this genotype, expressing group B capsular polysaccharide. The appearance of serogroup B:ET15 was related temporally and geographically to mass immunization campaigns designed to control serogroup C meningococcal disease in Canada. Since there is no vaccine available to control serogroup B meningococcal disease, the appearance of this variant may have public-health significance if it demonstrates the same epidemic potential as its serogroup C counterpart.
Insights
A new strain of serogroup B meningococcal disease (ET15) emerged in Canada following immunization campaigns for serogroup C. This variant may pose a significant public health risk due to its epidemic potential.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a significant public health concern in Canada.
- Serogroup C meningococcal disease, specifically electrophoretic type 15 (ET15), has been the predominant genotype causing epidemics.
- Mass immunization campaigns targeting serogroup C IMD were implemented across Canada.
Observation:
- Between August 1993 and September 1995, nine cases of invasive meningococcal disease were identified.
- These cases were caused by a variant of the ET15 genotype expressing serogroup B capsular polysaccharide.
- The emergence of serogroup B:ET15 coincided temporally and geographically with serogroup C immunization efforts.
Findings:
- A novel serogroup B meningococcal strain (ET15) emerged during a period of widespread vaccination against serogroup C.
- The temporal and geographic association suggests a potential link between the immunization campaigns and the emergence of the serogroup B variant.
- This serogroup B:ET15 strain may possess similar epidemic potential to its serogroup C predecessor.
Implications:
- The emergence of serogroup B:ET15 highlights the adaptability of Neisseria meningitidis strains in response to public health interventions.
- The lack of a vaccine for serogroup B meningococcal disease necessitates urgent public health surveillance and response strategies.
- Understanding the dynamics of strain replacement is crucial for effective long-term control of invasive meningococcal disease.