Overview
Meningococcal disease refers to any disease caused by meningococcus bacteria, called Neisseria meningitidis. The infection affects the lining of the brain and spinal cord, and the bloodstream leading to meningitis and septicemia respectively. It is a life threatening disease.Signs and Symptoms
Fever, Headache, Neck stiffness, Rashes, Joint pain, Muscle pain, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Photophobia, Altered mental statusCommon Causes
Infection by Neisseria meningitidis by direct person to person contactRisk Factors
Age, Travel to areas with meningococcal outbreaks, Overcrowding, Close contact with people suffering from meningococcal disease, Immunocompromised people, UnvaccinatedInvestigation Techniques
Full blood count, Cerebrospinal fluid culture and sensitivity, Blood culture and sensitivityTreatment and Prevention
Antibiotics, Avoid close contact with people who are infected, Meningococcal vaccination
