Serogroup B Meningococcal Disease
Article Abstract:
The best way to develop vaccines against meningococcal disease is to create them as needed from the serogroup of the bacterium that is causing the outbreak. Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Many serogroups, or subtypes, of the bacterium occur. Outbreaks of serogroup B begin slowly but may last for 10 years or longer. A 1999 study found that meningococcal vaccines were only effective against the serogroup from which they were developed. This is similar to the influenza vaccine, which is changed from year to year depending on which virus is predominant.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1999
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Meningococcal disease and public health practice: a complicated road map
Article Abstract:
Better vaccines are needed to prevent meningococcal disease. This infection, caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, is still a major problem despite the existence of a vaccine. A 1998 study found that the quadrivalent vaccine was 85% effective in young adults and 93% effective in children five or younger. However, it is not always easy to determine when an outbreak has occurred. The use of antibiotics to prevent the spread of infection is probably a good idea. Vaccinating college students may not be cost-effective and may divert money from other health interventions.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1998
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Effectiveness of a Mass Immunization Campaign Against Serogroup C Meningococcal Disease in Quebec
Article Abstract:
A polysaccharide vaccine against meningococcal disease can protect teenagers but should not be used in children under the age of two. This was the conclusion of researchers who analyzed data from a mass vaccination campaign in Quebec following an outbreak of meningococcal disease. This disease is caused by a bacterium.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2001
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