Neisseria meningitidis: Distribution in exposure and operating procedures in a Portuguese hospital
Synopsis
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe, potentially epidemic infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, predominantly affecting children and immunocompromised individuals. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets and can result in serious complications. Healthcare professionals who have direct, unprotected contact with infected patients are at increased risk, requiring a rapid response of Occupational Health Services. Objectives: This article analyses the distribution of professionals potentially exposed to Neisseria meningitidis in a Portuguese hospital over the past decade and discusses the protocol measures implemented by Occupational Health Service in their management. Methodology: A descriptive and observational study was conducted in a hospital setting in Portugal, involving workers potentially exposed to Neisseria meningitidis reported to the Occupational Health Service between 2015 and 2025. Results: Between 2015 and 2025, 522 potential occupational health exposures were identified. Confirmed meningococcal disease averaged 1.72±1.48 cases/year, requiring prophylaxis and surveillance. Most exposures occurred in Intensive Care (31.6%), Internal Medicine (23.6%), Emergency (13.4%), and Paediatrics (8%). Nurses were the most frequently potentially exposed group. Conclusions: Occupational Health Services are essential in identifying healthcare workers exposed to meningococcal disease, ensuring timely prophylaxis and symptom surveillance. Effective coordination with clinical and infection control teams, alongside epidemiological monitoring of resistant strains, is crucial to guide preventive strategies and future chemoprophylaxis decisions.
