Detection and response to a meningococcal disease outbreak following a youth football tournament with teams from four European countries

An outbreak of meningococcal disease, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, occurred following an international youth football tournament in the summer of 1997, affecting individuals from four European countries. This paper describes the outbreak, focusing on international co-operation in detection, investigation, control and follow-up, identifying weaknesses and exploring opportunities for improved co-operation. Data came from interviews, reports and related documents. The detection and management of the outbreak in each country is analysed. Eleven cases were linked to this outbreak and serotyped as C: 2a: P1.5. Control measures varied in each country, reflecting different national guidelines. The outbreak illustrated deficiencies in management of international outbreaks but also demonstrated benefits of international co-operation.