Surveillance of Meningococcal Disease in Children at the US–Mexico Border
Author Information
Author(s): Chacon-Cruz Enrique, Sugerman David E., Ginsberg Michele M., Hopkins Jackie, Hurtado-Montalvo Jose Antonio, Lopez-Viera Jose Luis, Lara-Muñoz Cesar Arturo, Rivas-Landeros Rosa M., Volker Maria Luisa, Leake John A.
Primary Institution: General Hospital of Tijuana
Hypothesis
Rates of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) are underreported at TGH and serogroup distribution is similar on both sides of the US–Mexico border.
Conclusion
The study suggests that rates of IMD in Tijuana may be higher than reported, with many cases being vaccine preventable.
Supporting Evidence
- 29 pediatric cases of IMD were diagnosed during the study period.
- Serogroup C was most commonly identified among the cases.
- 5 children died from IMD, with 4 being under 5 years of age.
- Most infections in San Diego County were caused by serogroup B.
- Rates of IMD at TGH may be substantially higher than reported.
Takeaway
Doctors looked at kids with a serious illness called meningococcal disease in Tijuana and San Diego, finding that more kids in Tijuana might be getting sick than we thought.
Methodology
Active surveillance for IMD was conducted at TGH among children under 17, with data analyzed from both TGH and SDC.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of cases due to lack of routine culture confirmation in Mexico.
Limitations
The study was limited by the small sample size and the availability of serogroup data only from TGH.
Participant Demographics
Children under 17 years of age from Tijuana and San Diego County.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.24
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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