Context
Invasive meningococcal infections (IIM) are diseases linked to bacteria which can, in certain cases, lead to meningitis.
Transmission occurs through direct, close and prolonged contact with a sick person or a healthy carrier..
IMI mainly affects young children and young adults.
Between September 16 and 20, 2024, three Grenoble students were hospitalized following meningitis. Their state of health is now reassuring. No new cases have been reported since September 20.
The subjects identified as contacts – among the relatives and classmates of these three students – were informed and received preventive antibiotic treatment.
Faced with this situation, the ARS Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and the student health service of Grenoble have decided to organize, by mid-October, a vaccination campaign. The students concerned will be informed directly as soon as the practical arrangements have been finalized (logistical organization, support, etc.).
Recommendations to the population
Recognizing the symptoms of IMM
The disease most often manifests itself by the following signs: fever, severe headache, often accompanied by vomiting.
Two symptoms should be particularly alarming:
- a poorly tolerated high fever,
- and/or one or more rapidly appearing red or purplish spots (purpura).
The sick person may also have impaired consciousness, pale or even gray facial color, diarrhea in addition to fever and vomiting, intolerance to light or noise, stiff neck, significant aches. , severe fatigue, significant drowsiness, eye paralysis or even convulsions.
If these symptoms appear, contact 15 immediately.
Get vaccinated against IMD
Vaccination against meningococcus B is the most effective measure to prevent the occurrence of new cases and complications. It has been recommended since 2022 for infants: 1st dose at 3 months, 2nd dose at 5 months, booster at 12 months.
Health authorities recommend vaccination against meningococcus type B when several cases occur in the same geographical area, even if the population has not necessarily been in very close contact with the initial cases.
In this case, vaccination aims to eliminate the risk of reintroduction of the bacteria and the appearance of new cases in the community in the long term.
Vaccination includes a first injection and a booster with a delay of at least one month between the two injections.
To learn more about meningococcus, symptoms, risks and prevention measures, visit our information page.
