Title : Asymptomatic Nasopharyngeal Carriage of Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae in Adults and Children: National Multi-centric cross-sectional pilot study
Abstract:
Introduction:
Invasive diseases caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae are major public health problem worldwide. Nasopharyngeal carriage rate depends on multiple risk factors. National carriage study is crucial for vaccination implantation and disease control.
Methods:
A community based cross-sectional carriage pilot study conducted during one month period September - October 2023 in multiple local health centers. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from the participants after obtaining consent form and filling in the online questionnaire. Organisms of interest were recovered using both culture methods and direct PCR.
Results:
Carriage prevalence for any of these organisms in all examinations was 23.1% (15/65). Non of the subjects were carrier for N. meningitides. The prevalence of pneumococcal carriage in all examinations was 16.9% while the prevalence of H. influenzae carriage in all examinations was 10.8%.
Conclusions:
Asymptomatic nasopharyngeal carriage of Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae might be low in Omani population compared to what is reported worldwide. However, no conclusion can be drawn currently as the study needs to be continued for more accurate results.
