New research found high incidence rates and deaths meningococcal disease in first-ever analysis of the disease impacts in Latin America. The work was coordinated by the Sabin Vaccine Institute in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the International Vaccine Access Center at Johns Hopkins University (JHU’s IVAC) and CDC. The study “found a need for improved surveillance and better understanding of meningococcal epidemiology and information on costs to help devise meningitis vaccination programs.” Dr. Ciro de Quadros, Executive Vice President of the Sabin Vaccine Institute, said, “Clearly, meningitis is a real health and economic burden in Latin America. Too many children are debilitated or die from this serious disease, yet it is preventable by vaccines. Our new research proves that we need to improve our strategies to fight meningococcal disease.” Dr. de Quadros spoke at the conclusion of the first Regional Meningococcal Symposium, convened by the Sabin Vaccine Institute and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) held March 19 and 20 in Buenos Aires. The meeting “brought together more than 150 researchers, vaccine experts, economists and others to evaluate the extent and cost of meningococcal disease and what obstacles impede its prevention through vaccination.”

http://www.sabin.org/news-resources/releases/2012/03/20/new-study-reveals-significant-healthcare-system-costs-associated-