Outbreak of invasive meningococcal B infections in the Beaujolais region (Rhône), 2016: From the initial alert to the decision to vaccinate

Introduction: Between February and March 2016, four cases of invasive meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B (IMMD) occurred in a limited area of the Beaujolais region (Rhône). Methods: An epidemiological investigation was conducted to describe the cases, identify potential chains of transmission, assess the risk to the population, and propose control measures. The National Reference Center (NRC) for Meningococcal Diseases performed strain typing and verified that the strains were covered by the Bexsero® vaccine. In accordance with the decision-making algorithm regarding vaccination with Bexsero® defined in the October 24, 2014 directive from the Directorate General of Health, a multidisciplinary expert panel was convened to assess the need for a vaccination campaign and define its parameters. Results: The four cases of IIMB were linked to the same strain belonging to the cc32 complex, which is rare in France. This strain was covered by Bexsero®. The incidence rate of IIMB in the smallest cluster of cases was 23 per 100,000 inhabitants, exceeding the epidemic threshold. This cluster of cases indicated the recent introduction of this strain and its active circulation in the population. Following the multidisciplinary expert meeting, the Regional Health Agency (ARS) decided to offer vaccination to the population aged 2 months to 24 years residing in the area (4,331 people) and to those working, receiving childcare, or attending school in the area. Discussion: This campaign was the first Bexsero® vaccination campaign organized in France. The most challenging step was defining the target population, given the difficulties in securing vaccine supplies.

Author(s): Thabuis Alexandra, Tararbit Karim, Taha Muhamed-Kheir, Parent du Châtelet Isabelle, Dejour Salamanca Dominique, Spaccaferri Guillaume

Publishing year: 2018

Pages: 614-619

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2018, n° 30-31, p. 614-619

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