What are the early signs of meningococcal?
Symptoms
- rash of red or purple pinprick spots, or larger bruise-like areas.
- fever.
- headache.
- neck stiffness.
- discomfort when you look at bright light.
- nausea or vomiting.
- diarrhoea.
- feeling very, very sick.
How does someone get meningococcal?
People spread meningococcal bacteria to other people by sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). Generally, it takes close (for example, coughing or kissing) or lengthy contact to spread these bacteria. Fortunately, they are not as contagious as germs that cause the common cold or the flu.
What happens when you have meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease usually takes the form of a blood infection (septicaemia) or an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). These infections can develop quickly and can cause serious illness or death. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.
Who is generally at highest risk for meningitis Why?
Infants, teens and young adults, and older adults have the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the United States.
Do adults get meningococcal?
Invasive meningococcal infection is most common in babies and young children, and older teenagers and young adults, but infection can occur at any age.
Is there a vaccine for meningococcal?
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is most commonly caused by types A, B, C, W and Y. Vaccines can protect against all these types, but different vaccines protect against different types.
What gender is most affected by meningitis?
Meningococcal meningitis primarily affects infants, children, and young adults. Males are affected slightly more than females, and account for 55% of all cases, with an incidence of 1.2 cases per 100,000 population, compared to 1 case per 100,000 population among females.