Meningococcal meningitis is a rare but serious bacterial infection that causes dangerous inflammation in the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. This potentially life-threatening disease is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria and can lead to severe complications or even death if not treated promptly.
Neisseria meningitidis, also called meningococcus, is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children and teens, and the second most common cause in adults. The bacteria can live in the back of the nose and throat without causing any problems in many people. However, for unknown reasons, it can sometimes break through the body's protective barriers and enter the bloodstream, reaching the nervous system and causing meningococcal meningitis.
Meningococcal meningitis can spread through saliva and mucus, requiring direct contact such as kissing or being coughed on. The bacteria doesn't survive long outside the body, so it's unlikely to be contracted by touching surfaces that an infected person has touched.
While only a small percentage of people exposed to the meningococcus bacteria will become ill, certain factors can increase the risk, including:
Age (infants, young children, teenagers, young adults, and the elderly are at higher risk)
Weakened immune system due to medication, HIV infection, sickle cell disease, or spleen removal
Being unvaccinated
Close contact with an infected person
Living in crowded conditions with young people
Meningococcal meningitis can progress rapidly, so it's crucial to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention immediately. The most common symptoms include:
Sudden high fever
Severe, persistent headache
Neck stiffness
Confusion or other mental changes
Other possible symptoms include general poor feeling, nausea or vomiting, discomfort in bright lights, drowsiness or difficulty awakening, joint or muscle pain, no appetite or thirst, and seizures.
In babies, symptoms may be slightly different, such as a tense or bulging soft spot on the skull (fontanelle), a high-pitched or moaning cry, stiff or jerky movements, floppiness, irritability, lethargy or excessive sleepiness, vomiting, and feeding poorly.
A crucial sign to watch for is a reddish or purple skin rash called petechiae, which indicates that the bacteria have entered the bloodstream. This rash does not get lighter when pressed on and is a medical emergency, as it signifies meningococcal septicemia, a serious type of blood poisoning that can be fatal within hours.
Meningococcal meningitis can lead to death or serious complications due to brain swelling, blood clots, and toxins released into the blood. Lifelong effects may include memory problems, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, trouble walking, paralysis, deafness, and epilepsy. To prevent these complications, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
If meningococcal meningitis is suspected, doctors will likely start antibiotics through an IV while running tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include blood tests, a CT scan, and a spinal tap to collect and test spinal fluid for bacteria.
Treatment for meningococcal meningitis typically involves antibiotics given through an IV for 5-7 days, along with steroids and other medications to control brain swelling. Depending on the severity of the illness, intensive care and a prolonged hospital stay may be necessary.
Prevention is the best approach to dealing with meningococcal meningitis, and the meningococcal vaccine can effectively prevent meningitis infection. In the U.S., three types of meningococcal vaccines are used: meningococcal conjugate vaccines (MenACWY or MCV4), serogroup B meningococcal B (MenB) vaccines, and pentavalent meningococcal vaccine (MenABCWY).
Experts recommend a dose of MenACWY for children at age 11, followed by a booster shot at age 16. A MenB vaccine is recommended for anyone aged 10 or older who is at high risk, as well as other people at risk, such as college students living in dorms, U.S. military recruits, travelers to areas where meningococcal disease is common, and people with weakened immune systems.
If you or someone you love has come in close contact with an individual who has meningococcal meningitis, it is crucial to get antibiotics to prevent infection.
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe and contagious infection that requires immediate medical attention. By understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and prevention methods, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from this potentially life-threatening disease. If you suspect exposure or experience symptoms, seek emergency medical care right away.
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