What is Meningococcal Disease?

This page was reviewed or revised on Thursday, August 13, 2009.

Meningococcal Disease is a very serious illness caused by a bacteria called Neisseria Meningitidis. The bacteria may cause meningitis - an inflammation of the membrane (meninges) that covers the brain and spinal cord or the bacteria can cause meningococcemia - the bacteria enters the bloodstream causing a massive infection and illness.

How is Meningococcal Disease spread?

The disease is spread from person to person by direct contact with nose or throat secretions (including saliva) of an infected person. It cannot be spread from a contact of a contact of a case. It is very important to know that the risk of getting the disease is very, very low even if you have been exposed to the bacteria. The bacteria is normally found in the nose and throat secretions of about 25% of the population at any given time and only poses a risk if the person exposed is susceptible.

What are the symptoms of Meningococcal Disease?

If you or your child has been exposed to the bacteria, you must observe yourself/child for ten days after contact and report any of the following symptoms immediately to your physician:

• a pinpoint (petechial) or blotchy rash
• high fever
• intense headache
• nausea and/or vomiting
• in small children, the fontanelle (soft spot) may bulge
• lethargy/drowsiness

How can I reduce the spread of the bacteria?

Since there is no way to know exactly who may be a carrier of the bacteria, it is necessary to take precautions to protect yourself and others from becoming infected.

• Do not share eating or drinking utensils.
• Do not take bites from other peoples' food.
• Do not share cigarettes or mouth pieces from musical wind instruments.
• Wash hands and any object that may be contaminated in hot soapy water.
• Dispose of tissues in garbage immediately after use.
• Report any suspicious symptoms to your physician immediately.

What can be done if I am exposed?

A drug called RIFAMPIN may be given to close direct contacts of a case of Meningococcal Disease. This medication is an antibiotic that helps reduce the carrier state and limits the spread of infection. Casual contacts such as classmates or co-workers do not need preventative antibiotics. However, any persons exhibiting the above named symptoms must seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Information dated May 18, 2006