Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by a microorganism called Neisseria meningitidis. This bacterium can sometimes reside in the nose and throat without causing symptoms. However, in certain circumstances, it can cause a severe infection known as invasive meningococcal disease (IMD).

This type of infection can lead to two primary issues: meningitis, an inflammation of the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia, a serious infection that spreads through the bloodstream.

Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly and may become life-threatening if not treated promptly, with about 10% of cases resulting in death.

Symptoms begin after 1 to 10 days and can vary, but often include:

fever
severe headache
neck stiffness
nausea and vomiting
sensitivity to light
rash (a red or purple rash that does not fade when pressed)
confusion and altered mental state
rapid breathing
cold hands and feet

It is important to note that not all individuals with meningococcal disease will exhibit all these symptoms.

While anyone can contract meningococcal disease, certain groups are at higher risk of contracting the disease, including infants and young children, teenagers and young adults, people living in close quarters with someone who has the disease, individuals with certain medical conditions that weaken the immune system, and travelers to areas with high rates of meningococcal disease.

It is important to seek medical attention quickly if someone shows symptoms and signs of the disease. Serious complications can include septic shock, kidney failure, brain damage and up to 20% of people might experience long-term complications such as problems with their nervous system, hearing difficulties, or loss of limb (amputation).The illness can move fast, and in some cases, around 10 out of every 100 people affected might not survive.

The infection spreads through respiratory and throat secretions during close and prolonged contact – such as kissing, sharing drinks with someone who is carrying the bacteria or when the person coughs or sneezes.

People with the disease stop being infectious within 24 hours after the initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy.

In the European Union, multiple vaccines are authorised for use to protect against some types (serogroups) of meningococcal bacteria. In some countries, getting vaccinated against meningococcal disease is a standard part of regular vaccine schedules, mainly for infants and adolescents. But in others, health authorities suggest the vaccine to those who are at higher risk of getting sick. Vaccination may be offered to key groups as a control measure in the event of an outbreak.

Meningococcal disease is a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is essential. The infection can be treated with antibiotics. People who have been in close contact with someone who has an infection or is suspected of having an infection should also be given antibiotics as a protective measure (chemoprophylaxis). This can help prevent the illness from spreading further.