Can we, should we, eradicate the meningococcus?

► New meningococcal vaccines are being developed and implemented. ► We examine the degree of meningococcal disease control achievable with vaccination. ► Population and evolutionary considerations are important in control of meningococci. ► Eradication of all meningococci is currently neither achievable nor desirable. ► Control of particular meningococci is an achievable end that can be attempted.