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Outbreaks of group B meningococcal disease--Florida, 1995 and 1997
Abstract:
Since 1992, Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B strains have caused several community- and school-based outbreaks in the United States. Response to such outbreaks is difficult because no serogroup B vaccine is licensed currently for use in the United States, and mass chemoprophylaxis has been evaluated only in restricted settings. This report describes the use of mass prophylaxis to control outbreaks of serogroup B meningococcal disease in Florida in two unusual settings: a hotel resort and a nursing home.
Insights
Mass chemoprophylaxis was used to control Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B outbreaks in Florida. This strategy proved effective in unique settings like a hotel resort and nursing home.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B has caused recurrent community and school outbreaks in the US since 1992.
- Control is challenging due to the lack of a licensed serogroup B vaccine in the US.
- Mass chemoprophylaxis has limited evaluation in non-traditional settings.
Observation:
- This report details the application of mass prophylaxis during serogroup B meningococcal disease outbreaks.
- The interventions occurred in two distinct and unusual environments: a hotel resort and a nursing home.
Findings:
- Mass chemoprophylaxis was implemented to manage outbreaks of serogroup B meningococcal disease.
- The study documents the use of this public health intervention in a hotel resort and a nursing home setting.
Implications:
- Demonstrates the potential utility of mass chemoprophylaxis in controlling meningococcal disease outbreaks in diverse settings.
- Highlights the need for adaptable public health strategies when facing vaccine-unavailable pathogens.
- Provides insights into managing infectious disease outbreaks in non-traditional community environments.