The Brittany Regional Health Agency (ARS) has announced a large-scale vaccination campaign for 100,000 young people aged 15 to 24 in the Rennes metropolitan area following several cases of meningitis.
In France, an increase in cases of invasive meningococcal infections (IMI), especially serogroup B, was observed during the 2024-2025 season, peaking in January. The Rennes metropolitan area, with nearly half a million inhabitants, is particularly affected.
Since December, the Brittany Regional Health Agency (ARS) has managed several cases of type B IMI in Ille-et-Vilaine, including two outbreaks at a business school and within a family. Analysis of the bacteria by the Pasteur Institute revealed infection with the same strain.
The investigation did not establish an epidemiological link between the clusters of cases, suggesting circulation of the strain in the Rennes metropolitan area.
To protect the exposed population, a meningococcus B vaccination campaign is beginning for young people aged 15 to 24 living or studying in the Rennes metropolitan area, covering 43 municipalities. Vaccination will take place over several weeks to ensure access for all.
Sophie de Duiéry
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