This page was reviewed or revised on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:19 PM
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.
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.
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:
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.
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