Meningococcal meningitis is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis and most commonly affects young children and adults. Initial symptoms are non-specific like fever and headache but can progress within 12-24 hours to include rashes, neck stiffness, and confusion. Treatment involves antibiotics like ceftriaxone while preventing further spread requires droplet precautions and antibiotics for close contacts.

1. Meningococcal meningitis
Epidemiology
•Neisseria meningitidis
•Most common in young children and young adults
Clinical features
•Initial: nonspecific fever, headache, vomiting, myalgias,
sore throat
•Within 12-24 hr: petechiae/purpura, meningeal signs, AMS
Treatment •Ceftriaxone
Complications
•Shock
•Disseminated intravascular coagulation
•Adrenal hemorrhage
Prevention
•Droplet precautions
•Chemoprophylaxis* for close contacts
*Rifampin, ciprofloxacin, or ceftriaxone. AMS = altered mental status.