The Australian researchers conclude that the study, published in the British Medical Journal, highlights the need for development of further effective meningococcal vaccines.
The incidence and fatality rate among teenagers in England and the US rose dramatically during the 1990s, but little is known about the risk factors for this disease in adolescents.
The research team examined potential risk and protective factors in 15-19 year olds who had been admitted to hospital with meningococcal disease in six regions of England from January 1999 to June 2000. Each case was compared with a matched control. Blood samples and nose and throat swabs were taken and data on potential risk factors were gathered by confidential interview.
Intimate kissing with multiple partners, a history of preceding illness, and being a student conferred higher risk of disease, whereas recent attendance at a religious event and meningococcal vaccination were associated with lower risk.