Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal bacteria live naturally in the back of the nose and throat in about 10% of the population without causing illness. In a small number of people, the bacteria pass the lining of the throat, enters the bloodstream and consequently causes meningococcal disease.

The infection can develop very quickly, however, if the infection is diagnosed early enough and the right antibiotics are given quickly, many people can make a complete recovery. However, for IMD, between 5–10% of people will die, even with treatment. Others will be left with permanent disabilities including loss of limbs or some form of brain damage.

Meningitis refers to an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. You can get meningitis from infection with viruses, bacteria and parasites, as well as other non-infectious causes (e.g. injuries, certain drugs, or conditions like lupus). There are two main types of meningitis:

• Viral meningitis (relatively common, most cases are mild and rarely fatal)
• Bacterial meningitis (rare in comparison, but extremely dangerous and can be fatal)

Bacterial meningitis is very serious and requires medical attention as soon as possible. Some common types of bacterial meningitis include:

• Hib meningitis – caused by Haemophilus influenzae tybe b (Hib) bacterium
• Meningococcal meningitis – caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacterium
• Pneumococcal meningitis – caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacterium

Meningococcal disease refers to a condition caused by the meningococcal bacterium (or, Neisseria meningitidis). Meningococcal disease can include meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord – this lining is called the meninges), and septicaemia (blood poisoning).

Bacterial meningitis progresses rapidly and can be life-threatening. Bacterial meningitis can lead to permanent disabilities (such as brain damage, hearing loss and learning disabilities) or even death.

It’s very important for anyone experiencing symptoms of meningitis to see their doctor right away- only a doctor will be able to diagnose the disease, including the type of meningitis and the best treatment required, which can prevent serious complications.

Generally, it takes person-to-person contact to spread these bacteria. The bacteria can be passed from one person to another through respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). For example, prolonged household contact (living in the same house) or intimate contact such as kissing.

Meningococcal bacteria are found only in humans and cannot live more than a few seconds outside of the body. About 10% of people  become carriers of the bacteria without causing symptoms or disease, but they can still pass the bacteria on to others. 

Meningitis:

• stiff neck
• fever
• headache
• photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)
• nausea/vomiting
• confusion
• poor eating/drinking, low alertness and vomiting (babies)

Septicaemia:

• fever
• fatigue
• vomiting
• chills
• cold hands and feet
• severe aches or pains
• rapid breathing
• diarrhoea
• a dark purple rash in the later stages