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Meningitis - meningococcal   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Meningococcal meningitis; Spinal meningitis (one type)

Definition:

An infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also called meningococcus, which causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Causes and Risks

Most cases occur in children from infancy to adolescence and it is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children. It is the second most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults. The onset may be rapid, and may start with an upper respiratory infection or sore throat. The infection occurs more often in winter or spring, and may cause local epidemics at boarding schools or military bases. Risk factors include recent exposure to meningococcal meningitis, and recent upper respiratory infection.

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