Meningococcal disease is any type of infection that’s caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, which is also called meningococcus. The bacteria can infect the meninges and the blood. These infections can be serious, even fatal. They’re called meningococcal meningitis and meningococcal septicemia.
The word “meninges” means the three membranes that cover your central nervous system, which is made up of your spinal cord and brain. Membranes are thin layers of tissue that provide protection for the content of the tissues. (Think of how oranges and grapefruits are sectioned off.) Technically, the largest membrane is our skin.
The three meninges are pia mater, arachnoid and dura mater.
What are the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease?
There are many signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease. You should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have any of these symptoms. It’s very important to get an early diagnosis.
In small children, symptoms may include refusing to eat, being twitchy or floppy, or being extremely tired.
How is meningococcal disease treated?
Meningococcal disease is treated with antibiotics. If your healthcare provider thinks you have meningococcal disease, they’ll start you on antibiotics even before the condition is confirmed. It’s very important to start treatment as early as possible.
Ways to treat damaged or dead skin, including surgeries.
Complications related to meningococcal disease
Meningococcal disease is serious. Ten to 15 people out of 100 will die even if they’re treated with antibiotics. As many as 20% of people who survive will have long-term consequences that may include deafness, limb loss, nerve damage, kidney damage or brain damage.
Complete recovery may take some time. The antibiotics are given over a seven- to 10-day period, but it may take much longer to feel better. This is especially true if you have complications.
How is meningococcal disease diagnosed?
Diagnosing meningococcal disease is somewhat difficult because symptoms resemble those of other illnesses, like the flu. Your healthcare provider has to find Neisseria meningitidis bacteria to diagnose this condition. So, your doctor will take blood samples and possibly do a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to get spinal fluid to test.
These samples will be sent to a laboratory to see if the bacteria can be cultured (grown). Your healthcare provider may order other tests if the cultures aren’t conclusive.
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