Meningococcal Infection

Meningococcal is a type of meningitis. A bateria called Neisseria meningitidis enters the thin lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord casuing swelling, or an infection in the bloodstream.

How is it transmitted?

Through spit or saliva.
It's usually transmitted
through close or lengthy contact.

How is it treated?

Antibiotics are prescribed to help
reduce the risk of dying.

Meningococcal Infection rapidly invades the body.
If left untreated you could suffer
brain damage, organ failure, and even death.

Permanent disabilities include
brain damage, hearing loss, loss of limbs,
and learning disabilities

Signs and symptoms

Fever
Headache
Stiff neckNausea
Vomiting
Photophobia
Hearing loss
Rash
Altered mental status

It may be hard to notice these symptoms with
newborns and babies so instead you can look for
signs of slow or inactiveness, irritable , poor feeding, or anterior fontanelle.

Some people who have been infected
don't show signs or symptoms.

Immunizations

People should receive their first
vaccine at 12 months of age, again at age 11 or 12.