Meningococcus this Winter : what was going on?

Abstract

There was a time in the not very distant past when meningococcus was not being recognised locally. While laboratory sensitivity used to isolate Neisseria meningitidis has not changed in Malta, the frequency of its detection has increased, more so in the last few months. In this discussion, it is assumed that the sensitivity of detection and degree of reporting of the condition has remained stable throughout the past eleven year period, so that the observed trend remains interpretable. Early, aggressive treatment with antimicrobials makes subsequent microbiological ascertainment difficult. Although meningococcal disease is notifiable by law, it is assumed that reporting of the recognised condition may not be full.