Meningococcal meningitis

Meningococcal meningitis is a form of meningitis caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It is a serious infection of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. The disease is characterized by high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and often, a characteristic skin rash.

Causes

Meningococcal meningitis is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus. There are several serogroups of N. meningitidis that can cause disease, including A, B, C, W, X, Y, and Z. The bacteria are spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions like spit (e.g., by living in close quarters, kissing).

Symptoms

Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis can appear quickly or over several days. Typically they develop within 3-7 days after exposure and can include sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck. There are often additional symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), and altered mental status (confusion).

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis is usually made by growing bacteria from a sample of spinal fluid. The spinal fluid is obtained by performing a lumbar puncture, where a needle is inserted into an area in the lower back where fluid in the spinal canal is readily accessible.

Treatment

Meningococcal meningitis can be a severe and potentially fatal disease. If meningococcal meningitis is suspected, antibiotics should be given as soon as possible. Appropriate antibiotic treatment of the most common types of meningococcal meningitis should reduce the risk of dying from the disease to below 15%.

Prevention

Vaccines against meningococcal meningitis are available and are the most effective way to protect against the disease. In addition, prophylactic antibiotics can be given to close contacts of a person with meningococcal meningitis to prevent them from getting the disease.

See also

• Meningitis
• Neisseria meningitidis
• Lumbar puncture

Meningococcal meningitis Resources
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