The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Regional Health Agency is launching a vaccination campaign linked to the appearance of a new variant of meningococcus B for 0-2 year olds and 16-24 year olds.
In recent months, out of 26 cases of meningococcal B detected in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, 10 cases were linked to a new variant. The people concerned were all aged 16 to 21 and most frequented the Chambéry sector (residence, employment, outings, etc.).
Vaccination is therefore recommended for certain inhabitants of the Chambéry catchment area. (this area includes 112 municipalities in Savoie, including Chambéry, 1 municipality in Ain and 2 municipalities in Isère).
What is Meningococcus B?
B meningococci are bacteria that can cause very serious illnesses such as meningitis or septicemia. These diseases can be fatal or leave serious sequelae.
How is meningococcus B transmitted?
The bacterium is transmitted through the air or through saliva, especially through coughing or sputtering. It does not survive in the external environment, neither on objects nor on surfaces. Transmission occurs through direct, close and prolonged contact with a sick person or a healthy carrier.
Vaccination against meningococcal B
In accordance with the opinions of the Haute Autorité de Santé, vaccination against meningococcal B is the most effective measure to prevent the occurrence of new cases and complications. It is part of the new vaccination recommendations for children aged 0-2 years in the 2022 vaccination calendar.
Meningococcal B vaccination recommendations for 0-2 year olds and 16-24 year olds living in Chambéry
In Chambéry, two populations at increased risk of infection with meningococcus B have been identified:
- young people aged 16-24
- children 0-2 years old (the new variant can also be transmitted to this age group)
It is therefore recommended:
- people aged 16-24 living in Chambéry to get vaccinated,
- parents of infants aged 0-2 years to ensure that their child has been vaccinated, in accordance with the new recommendations of the Haute Autorité de Santé in the 2022 vaccination calendar and, if this is not the case, to get closer to their GP/paediatrician.
Vaccination includes a first injection and a booster with a period of at least one month between the two injections. As part of this campaignthe meningococcal B vaccine is reimbursed at 100% (65% health insurance + 35% mutual) when purchased in pharmacies and is issued free of charge in the vaccination centers mobilized.
Where to get vaccinated in Chambéry?
For vaccination, the people concerned (parents of 0-2 year olds and people aged 16-24) can contact their doctor.
If they do not have mutual insurance, they can contact the following vaccination centres:
A toll-free number set up
In order to answer any questions concerning this vaccination campaign, the ARS Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes has set up a toll-free number: 0 800 100 378 (free call, service open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on working days). For more information : site internet ARS