Houston, Texas – The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about a concerning rise in cases of invasive meningococcal disease in the country. According to the alert, there were 422 reported cases of the disease in the US last year, marking the highest number since 2014.
This rare but severe illness, caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, has a fatality rate ranging from 10-15%, even with proper antibiotic treatment. Symptoms of meningococcal disease can often mimic those of meningitis, including fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and photophobia. In some cases, the disease can manifest as meningococcal bloodstream infections, with symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, vomiting, cold hands and feet, severe body aches, rapid breathing, or dark purple rashes in later stages.
The CDC emphasized the rapid progression of the disease, warning that initial symptoms, though non-specific, can escalate quickly and become life-threatening within hours. Even survivors of the disease may experience long-term effects such as deafness or limb amputation. As of March 25th, 143 cases have already been reported in the US this year, representing a significant increase compared to the same period last year.
Out of the six meningococcal bacteria groups globally, those circulating in the US are types B, C, W, and Y. Vaccines for these strains are currently available in the country. The CDC noted that the disease has been disproportionately affecting individuals between 30 to 60 years old, Black populations, and those with HIV. Of the 94 patients with known outcomes, 17 have passed away, indicating a higher fatality rate of 18% compared to historical rates from 2017 to 2021.
The bacteria responsible for meningococcal disease are primarily transmitted through close contact, such as sharing respiratory or throat secretions via coughing, kissing, or prolonged exposure. Casual contact or simply being in the vicinity of an infected person does not pose a risk of transmission. Healthcare providers have been advised to maintain a high level of suspicion for the disease, especially among populations at higher risk, and to ensure that all individuals recommended for meningococcal vaccination, including those with HIV, are up to date with their immunizations.