EMERGENCE OF NEISSERIA-MENINGITIDIS-B STR AINS IN SENEGAL

The authors reported the emergence of meningococcus B strains in Sub-S aharian Africa. From 1992 to 1993, four strains of Neisseria meningiti dis' B serogroup were isolated in A. Royer paediatric Service of Dakar University Hospital Center. These strains, originated from children a ged four to six years (two girls and two boys), admitted for purulent meningitis, during the dry and cold season. The clinical aspects showe d no pecularity. Direct examination and search of soluble antigens of meningococcus B, were positive in all cerebrospinal fluid samples; cul ture was negative in one patient, who probably received antibiotic. Su sceptibility to antibiotics indicated a good sensibility to penicillin G, ampicillin, chloramphenicol and erythromycin. The mean duration of hospitalization was 12 days; patients having a favorable outcome with intravenous ampicillin.