France is experiencing a significant rise in meningococcal infections this year, prompting Public Health France to urge infants, adolescents, and young adults to get vaccinated against the potentially deadly disease.
Sharp Increase in Cases
According to the country’s public health agency, there were 95 cases of meningococcal infections in January and 89 cases in February—figures that are “well above” previous years. Officials warn that group B meningococcal bacteria, the most common strain, has been detected in two clusters: one among university students in Lyon and another involving students and a family in Rennes.
Last year, France recorded 615 cases of meningococcal infections, the highest number since 2010.
Health experts suggest that this surge may be linked to the severe flu season, as influenza can increase the risk of contracting meningitis.
Mandatory Vaccinations and Prevention Measures
Since the start of 2024, France has made vaccination against meningitis B and serogroups A, C, W, and Y mandatory for infants. The ACWY vaccine is also recommended for adolescents aged 11 to 14, with a booster available until age 24, according to Public Health France.
In response to recent outbreaks, targeted vaccination campaigns have been carried out, particularly among students.
What is Meningococcal Disease?
Meningococcal infections are caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which can lead to:
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include fever, headache, and stiff neck.
- Meningococcal sepsis: A bloodstream infection that can result in rash, fever, and septic shock.
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the disease progresses rapidly and has a fatality rate of 8-15%.
While outbreaks are rare, they often occur in universities and communal living spaces. The ECDC emphasizes that vaccination is the most effective prevention method, while antibiotics can be used for treatment.
With infections rising sharply, health officials are urging parents and young people to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help curb the spread of the disease.
