18-Year-Old Dies as Meningitis Cluster Emerges in Rennes Family

A meningococcal meningitis outbreak has led to one death, two hospitalizations, and 40 identified contacts receiving preventative treatment in Brittany.

An 18-year-old woman in Rennes died on February 3, 2025, from meningococcal meningitis, a severe bacterial infection.
The outbreak involves multiple cases within the same family in Rennes and nearby Chantepie, with two individuals hospitalized and recovering.
The regional health agency (ARS) identified approximately 40 close contacts, all of whom have been treated with prophylactic antibiotics to prevent further spread.
Meningococcal meningitis is highly contagious and can cause severe complications or death, with a mortality rate of 10% even with treatment.
France recently expanded mandatory meningitis vaccination for infants and adolescents, targeting multiple bacterial strains to curb rising cases.