MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE: A POTENTIALLY FATAL BACTERIAL ILLNESS ON THE RISE
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a warning regarding an increase in cases of meningococcal disease, a rare bacterial illness that can lead to meningitis, a potentially fatal infection. In a recent alert to doctors, the CDC highlighted a rise in infections caused by a specific strain of bacteria, resulting in the highest annual number of cases reported in the United States since 2014.
According to the CDC, last year saw 422 cases of meningococcal disease in the U.S., and as of March 25 this year, 143 cases have already been reported. This alarming trend suggests that infections are on track to surpass the record set in 2023.
The CDC also revealed that these cases were disproportionately more common in adults ages 30 to 60, Black individuals, and people with HIV. This information underscores the need for targeted interventions and education to prevent further spread of the disease among these vulnerable populations.
Meningococcal disease can manifest in different forms, most commonly as meningitis or as a bloodstream infection. Both types of infections are serious and can rapidly become life-threatening. Meningitis occurs when the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord becomes infected and swollen. Symptoms typically include severe headaches, neck stiffness, high fever, and sensitivity to light. On the other hand, a bloodstream infection damages blood vessel walls, causing bleeding into the skin and organs. This can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, severe aches, and a dark purple rash.
The transmission of meningococcal bacteria occurs mainly through respiratory and throat secretions, such as saliva or spit. Therefore, close or direct contact, like coughing, sharing drinks, or kissing, can facilitate the spread of the disease. However, the CDC reassures the public that meningococcal bacteria are less contagious than the germs that cause the common cold or flu. Casual contact or simply breathing the air where an infected person has been is unlikely to transmit the bacteria.
Fortunately, there are vaccines available to prevent meningococcal disease. The CDC recommends that all children receive a meningococcal conjugate vaccine before entering middle school, as the vaccine
