Meningococcal disease within the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries

Abstract

This review reports on the recent epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries (focusing from 2012 onwards), the existing immunization strategies and the potential for IMD resurgence. MenACWY vaccination is now established in infant or adolescent immunization programs in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. At present, GCC Countries do not include MenB immunization. National health surveillance reports indicate a total of 156 IMD cases reported across the GCC Countries between 2012 and 2021; between 30% and 80% of cases were reported in individuals aged ≥15 years. Lack of serogroup data hinders the assessment of vaccine impact and decision-making on additional vaccine introductions (e.g. MenB immunization). Hajj/Umrah pilgrimage and the increasing number of large-scale commercial and social events held in the GCC Countries pose a potential risk for future IMD outbreaks. Immunization policies for such events could be strengthened.

Invasive Meningococcal Disease in North Batina, Oman in 2023. A Case Study

“…Between 2012 and 2021 a total of 156 IMD cases were reported by the Gulf Cooperation Council countries which including Oman. 30% to 80% of cases were reported among individuals aged ≥15 years old [5]. Transmission of the bacteria is by direct contact including droplets and discharge from nose and throat of infected persons and more often from carriers than 174 cases.…”