Meningococcal Disease, 2019

Four Neisseria meningitidis (NM) invasive disease cases (0.07 per 100,000 population) were reported in 2019; there were no cases in 2018, 5 cases in 2017, and 5 cases in 2016. Three were serogroup B and 1 was serogroup Y. All cases were sporadic.

Cases ranged in age from 19 years to 46 years. All cases occurred in the metropolitan area. Three cases had meningitis and 1 had bacteremia without another focus of infection. There were no deaths.

Incidence of invasive NM was stable at about 0.30 cases per 100,000 persons since 2005 (with the exception of 2008 when incidence increased to 0.57 cases per 100,000 persons); however, invasive NM incidence has decreased since 2011. The quadrivalent conjugate vaccine, MenACWY is recommended at 11- 12 years with a booster at age 16. Vaccination rates for at least 1 dose among 13-17 year old Minnesota adolescents is 78.5%; rates for the booster are lagging at 26.9% (Minnesota Immunization Information Connection, 2018 data). Meningococcal B vaccine is recommended for persons 10 years of age and older with specific risk factors. It should especially be considered for those 16-23 years of age, especially in outbreak situations.

• Find up to date information at>> Meningococcal Disease
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2019