Khaberni - Europe has recently witnessed a worrying increase in cases of bacterial meningitis, which can be fatal in about 10% of those infected.
Young children and youth are the most susceptible group, due to biological and behavioral factors that accelerate the spread of the infection.
The UK health authorities have announced an unprecedented outbreak within the past few weeks, resulting in several deaths and about 30 people infected. According to the French site "comparateur assurance", student gatherings and social activities in university towns have played a major role in the spread of the disease, highlighting the danger of direct physical contact in transmitting bacteria.
The phenomenon is not limited to Britain; France recorded hundreds of cases in the year 2025, concurrently with the easing of health measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, the French authorities have expanded the scope of mandatory vaccination for infants to include several strains of bacteria, while continuing to support vaccines such as “Bexsero” and “Trumenba” through health insurance.
Medically, the rise in infections among youth is attributed to a relative weakness in the immune system, especially in children who have not yet fully developed the capacity to produce effective antibodies, and the anatomical structure of the brain membranes makes them more susceptible to bacterial penetration, increasing the risk of infection.
Environmental factors also play a significant role, as the disease spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact in crowded places like schools and universities, complicating the situation with carriers of the bacteria without symptoms, contributing to its silent spread within the community.
Health authorities emphasize the necessity of prevention through vaccination and raising awareness among youth to reduce the spread of this serious disease.
