Meningitis - meningococcal Health Article

Definition

Meningococcal meningitis is an infection that causes swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

See also:

• Aseptic meningitis
• Meningitis
• Meningitis - cryptococcal
• Meningitis - gram-negative
• Meningitis -
• Meningitis - pneumococcal
• Meningitis - staphylococcal
• Meningitis - tuberculous

Alternative Names

Meningococcal meningitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Meningococcal meningitis is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis (also known as meningococcus).

Most cases of meningococcal meningitis occur in children. Meningococcus is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children and the second most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults.

The infection occurs more often in winter or spring. It may cause local epidemics at boarding schools, college dormitories, or military bases.

Risk factors include recent exposure to meningococcal meningitis and a recent upper respiratory infection.

Symptoms

The disease may come on quickly, and may start with an upper respiratory infection or sore throat.

Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Mental status changes
• Nausea
• Purple, bruise-like areas (purpura)
• Rash, pinpoint red spots (petechiae)
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Severe headache
• Severe general ill feeling (malaise)
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting