Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease (pronunciation: /ˌmɛnɪŋɡəˈkɒkəl/), is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus.

Etymology

The term "meningococcal" is derived from the Greek words meninx meaning "membrane" and kokkos meaning "berry". This refers to the bacterium's ability to infect the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms

Meningococcal disease can lead to meningitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, and septicemia, a severe and potentially deadly blood infection. Symptoms may 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).

Transmission

Meningococcal disease is transmitted through respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). It is not as contagious as the common cold or the flu, and it is not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningococcal disease has been.

Prevention

Prevention of meningococcal disease is possible with the use of vaccines. There are vaccines available that protect against most strains of Neisseria meningitidis.

Treatment

Early treatment of meningococcal disease is very important. If meningococcal disease is suspected, antibiotics are given right away. Antibiotics help reduce the risk of dying, and they also reduce the risk of complications.

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Meningococcal disease