Meningococcal

Description:  Meningococcal disease is a serious illness, caused by a bacteria.  It is a leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children 2 through 18 years old in the United States.  Meningitis is an infection of fluid surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. Meningococcal disease also causes blood infections.

Symptoms:  Sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity of light) and altered mental status.

Complications:   About 2,600 people get meningococcal disease each year in the U.S.  10 to 5 percent of these people die, in spite of treatment with antibiotics.  Of those who live, another 11 to19 percent lose their arms or legs, become deaf, have problems with their nervous systems, become mentally retarded, or suffer seizures or strokes.  Still, about 1 out of every ten people who get the disease dies from it, and many others are affected for life.  This is why preventing the disease through use of meningococcal vaccine is important for people at highest risk.

Transmission:   Primary mode is by respiratory droplet spread or by direct contact

Vaccine:   Meningococcal vaccine can prevent this disease.

 

Printable Vaccine Information Statement

Pictures:  CDC pictures / Immunization Action Coalition pictures.