The symptoms and risk factors for meningococcal disease

Meningococcal bacteria typically cause infection in your brain and spinal cord (meningitis) or your bloodstream (meningococcemia), sometimes resulting in both. In either form, it can become fatal if not aggressively treated early. Here's the break down about what makes meningococcal bacteria so dangerous, the signs you need to know and who is at risk.

What are the first symptoms of meningitis?

Some common first symptoms of meningococcal disease include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion

How meningococcal disease spreads

Meningococcal disease is an infectious disease that spreads through saliva or spit. Generally, it takes close or lengthy contact between people to spread the bacteria.

When someone in your household or in close contact gets diagnosed with meningococcal disease, you and other people in the same household are at a higher risk. This includes roommates, housemates, partners with direct contact.

Risk and spread of meningitis

Those most at risk for meningococcal disease are preteens and teenagers. There are two different vaccines to help protect you and your family.

The CDC recommends children aged 11-12 receive one vaccination and a booster dose at 16 years old. The booster dose helps protect teens when they are at highest risk.

Other people who are at an increased risk include people with:

1. Certain medical conditions–such as people who have had their spleens removed.
2. Travel plans to areas where the disease is common.
3. Jobs working with the bacteria.
4. Increased risk due to a meningococcal disease outbreak.

When caught early and treated aggressively in the hospital the infection can be cured with antibiotics.