Meningitis cases in France are at ‘exceptionally high’ level, say health officials

Meningitis is on the rise in France with more than a dozen recent deaths linked to the illness, health officials are warning. 

In January 2025 90 cases were reported of the disease, with 13 deaths according to the most recent bulletin from health authority Santé Publique on February 19 (covering up to January 31, 2025).

This is 80% higher than the number of cases recorded in January 2024, and the highest seen in a single month since December 2022. 

The number of cases recorded in 2024 overall (615) was the highest annual figure since 2010, although if infections continue at current rates this year’s figures will outstrip this by July. 

Deaths last month include a three-year old in the Drôme department, however adults and teenagers have also been impacted, causing authorities to be particularly concerned about the impact. 

There were 50 recorded meningitis deaths between July 2024 and January 2025.

Vaccination against meningitis is mandatory for newborns in France, with a top-up jab recommended between the ages of 11 and 14. 

French Health Minister Dr Yannick Neuder is urging those eligible to receive top-up vaccines to reduce the risk of meningitis spreading.

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Intense flu season may be contributing towards deaths

The increase in cases may be linked to the long-lasting winter flu epidemic in France this year, said Santé Publique. 

An ‘epidemiological correlation’ between the two illnesses is possible, particularly as the flu is still affecting children in France at a high rate, the authorities said. 

Around 10% - 15% of people carry the bacteria that causes meningitis in their throat at one point in their lives, although these strains are mostly harmless. 

In cases where the bacteria is harmful, it makes its way into the bloodstream, before reaching their brain or spinal cord. 

For people suffering with the flu, one of the main symptoms relating to their blocked nose – swelling of the mucous membrane – could possibly facilitate the passage of the bacteria to the bloodstream. 

Viral infections such as flu may also cause a slight immunodeficiency in the mucosal membrane, leading to a higher risk of meningitis, even if infections in general improve immuno-defences. 

However, it needs to be stressed these are hypotheses at this point as scientists look to explain the sudden rise in cases. 

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