Toronto Public Health recommends meningococcal vaccination as number of cases continues to rise - City of Toronto - ExBulletin
Source: ExBulletin
Toronto Public Health (TPH) is seeing a continued increase in the number of reported cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) among Toronto residents. Fourteen IMD cases have been reported so far in 2024, an increase from the annual average of six.
TPH has identified seven individuals infected with a specific type of IMD called Type W. Six of the seven cases match the Type W IMD strain detected in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The people infected with this strain in Toronto had never traveled to the area or had any contact with anyone who had traveled.
Cases of the IMD W strain have been identified in travellers returning from Saudi Arabia to the UK, USA and France.
The W variant has been associated with multiple outbreaks around the world and is known to cause more severe illness than other types of IMD. While the W variant was previously uncommon in Toronto, it now accounts for approximately 20% of cases between 2014 and 2023.
People returning from KSA should be aware of symptoms of IMD and take precautions such as:
It is important to stay up to date on all recommended meningococcal vaccines to prevent IMD, especially as the summer travel season begins and people return from international events or attend large local gatherings.
Adults aged 18 to 38 who have not yet received the meningococcal vaccine are eligible to receive the publicly funded meningococcal vaccine, which protects against strains A, C, Y and W. New immigrants to Canada who have not been able to receive this vaccine are also eligible.
TPH Meningococcal Vaccination Clinic
Parents, guardians and caregivers should ensure their children are vaccinated against IMD. The Meningococcal C vaccine is usually given at 12 months of age, and the Meningococcal ACYW vaccine is given in Grade 7, both of which are required by Ontario's School Pupil Immunization Act.
Torontonians are urged to contact their health-care provider or make an appointment at a TPH vaccination clinic to receive the meningococcal vaccine. Appointments are available now for school-age children, and adults aged 18 to 38 who missed their meningococcal vaccination will be able to book appointments starting June 28. For more information, including updated clinic locations, dates and times, see below. TPH reservation system webpage.
Invasive meningococcal disease
IMD is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are often serious and can be fatal. They can include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and the bloodstream. Meningococci spread to other people by sharing respiratory or throat secretions (saliva or spit). Close and prolonged contact is usually required for these bacteria to spread.
The highest incidence is seen in young children, adolescents, and young adults. Symptoms usually begin with fever, aches, joint pains, headache, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.
People can transmit IMD up to 7 days before they become ill and up to 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. People can spread IMD to others even if they don't have symptoms.
Torontonians who experience symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
Please see below for details. TPH's Meningococcal Vaccine webpage.
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