Neisseria meningitides

Neisseria meningitidis, often referred to as meningococcus, is a Gram-negative bacteria that can cause meningitis and other forms of meningococcal disease such as meningococcemia. It is one of the leading causes of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults in the United States.

Biology

Neisseria meningitidis is a bacterium that is a member of the Neisseriaceae family. It is a commensal organism that can be found in the nasopharynx of humans. Although it is a commensal organism, it can invade the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.

Pathogenesis

Neisseria meningitidis can cause meningitis and other forms of meningococcal disease. It is one of the leading causes of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults in the United States. The bacteria can invade the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent meningococcal disease. Several vaccines are available that protect against different serogroups of Neisseria meningitidis.

Treatment

Treatment for meningococcal disease typically involves high-dose antibiotics. If treated early, meningococcal disease can be cured.

See also

• Meningitis
• Meningococcal disease
• Neisseriaceae
• Vaccination

Neisseria meningitides Resources
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