Description of the situation
22 January 1996
Disease Outbreak Reported
During the past 10 years the incidence of meningococcal meningitis increased gradually in Rio de Janeiro - from 290 cases (2.4 per 100.000 population) in 1986 to 853 (8.3 per 100,000) in 1993. Preliminary data for 1994 are 974 cases and for 1995, 1,106 notified by 28 December 1995. In 1995, 40% of the cases were in children under 5 and 16% of the cases died. Most cases (90%) in 1995 were from the metropolitan area and about half from Rio de Janeiro. Types B and C have increased during this period and in 1995 when 48% of cases were serotyped, 42% were type B and 57% type C. Ampicillin and penicillin has been recommended for treatment of cases, rifampicin for prophylaxis in close contacts. Several vaccination campaigns have been conducted in the state, In December 1994- February 1995, 63% of children in age groups from 6 months to 13 years. Over 80% in age groups between 1 and 9 years received the vaccine. The vaccination campaign was resumed in November 1995 targeting the age groups 14-29 years.