New Zealand epidemic strain meningococcal B outer membrane vesicle vaccine in children aged 16-24 months

Abstract

BACKGROUND: New Zealand has experienced an epidemic of Neisseria meningitidis dominated by strain B:4:P1.7b,4 since 1991. Children younger than 5 years are at highest risk. Previous serogroup B outer membrane vesicle (OMV) strain specific vaccines have shown variable efficacy in this age group. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the immunogenicity, reactogenicity and safety in 16-24-month-old children of an OMV vaccine developed against the New Zealand epidemic strain. METHODS: Children (332) aged 16-24 months were randomized to receive the New Zealand candidate vaccine made using strain NZ98/254 (B:4:P1.7b,4) or the Norwegian parent vaccine made using strain 44/76 (B:15:P1.7,16). Vaccines (25 microg/do..