What is meningococcal disease ?

Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitides. The bacteria infect the covering of the brain and spinal cord (meninges ) or bloodstream.

How is the Neisseria meningitides bacteria transmitted ?

This bacteria spreads through respiratory and throat secretions such as spit. You can also get it by direct contact with an infected person. You can get it through coughing,  sneezing, kissing and sharing water bottles or utensils.

Who is at risk ?

You are at risk if :

 
• you live in community setting such as a dormitories
• under the age of 1
•  ages 16 to 21
• travelling to sub-Saharan Africa
• certain medical conditions such as not having a spleen

Are there any symptoms associated with meningococcal disease ?

Some of the symptoms include :

 
• vomiting
• stiff neck
• headache
• high fever rash

 
How serious is meningococcal disease ?

About 10 to 15 % of the people who get this disease die. Those who live encounter complications such as

 
• permanent brain damage
• hearing loss
• loss of limbs
• kidney failure
• chronic nervous system problems

Can I be treated for this disease ?

Treatment should be immediate. There are various antibiotics that can be used to treat meningococcal disease. However if damage done to the body is too extensive , antibiotics cannot save a person’s life or patient may develop life long complications.

You may also be given  breathing support, medications to treat low blood pressure and wound care for parts of the body with damaged skin .

Are there ways to prevent getting infected ?

The meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) can prevent the meningococcal disease. It is recommended to get this vaccine at these ages :

 
• Between 11 and 12 years
• A booster shot at 16 years of age

 
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