2023-04-19 05:15:00
Cases of meningococcal (bacterial) meningitis are on the rise once more. Experts are concerned regarding this progression of cases.
Par Johanna Amselem
© NOBEASTSOFIERCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LI / DDJ / Science Photo Library via AFP
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84 cases of invasive meningococcal infections were recorded in France in December 2022 by Public Health France. In recent months, outbreaks have been identified in several regions, particularly in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
“After more than two years of low incidence, in connection with the measures put in place during the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of invasive meningococcal infections (IMD) has started to rise once more since October 2022”, underlined the health authority in an epidemiological point carried out last January. Before completing: “With 84 cases of IIM declared in December 2022, the incidence is at a high level, and has exceeded the monthly peak generally observed later during the winter seasons preceding the covid-19 pandemic (peak between January and March depending on the season). »
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Inflammation of the meninges
What is it regarding ? Acute meningitis reflects an inflammation of the meninges which are the protective envelopes of the brain and spinal cord. This cerebrospinal fluid infection is most often caused by a virus or bacteria. While viral meningitis is the most common, those of bacterial origin are the most serious. Among these, meningococci are bacteria that can cause very serious illnesses such as meningitis or septicemia. The transmission of meningococci is done by nasopharyngeal secretions, that is to say during coughing, by saliva or by postilions. Generally, the incubation period varies from 2 to 10 days.
Headaches, high fever and the presence of rapidly appearing red or purplish spots (purpura) on the skin are signs that should alert you quickly and prompt you to consult the 15. Meningococcus B can also manifest itself in disorders consciousness, a pale or even gray face color, diarrhea and vomiting, intolerance to light or noise, stiff neck, severe body aches, great fatigue, severe drowsiness, ocular paralysis or convulsions list the regional health agency.
Antibiotics and a vaccine
“A suspicion of invasive meningococcal infection requires rapid medical treatment and emergency transfer to hospital. Management includes the administration of antibiotics (C3G) intravenously if possible or intramuscularly”, details Public Health France. The National Public Health Agency reports regarding 50 to 60 deaths per year (regarding 10 to 12% of cases). In addition, 10 to 20% of sequelae can be disabling.
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What vaccinations? Vaccination once morest serogroup C meningococcal infections is recommended for infants, children and adolescents up to 24 years of age. This vaccination is mandatory for children born from the 1is January 2018 with a first dose at 5 months of age followed by a booster at 12 months.
“There are also vaccines once morest serogroup B meningococcal infections and vaccines once morest serogroup A, C, W, Y infections (tetravalent ACWY vaccines). These vaccines are recommended for certain population groups (immunocompromised people or people at risk of IIM), ”recalls Public Health France. In France, invasive meningococcal infections are notifiable diseases. Questioned by France Inter, the Pr Daniel Floret, professor of pediatrics and vice-president of the technical commission for vaccinations at the Haute Autorité de santé explained that the recommendations were being reviewed and that an extension of the recommendations was possible.
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