Meningococcal infection

Description
This is a rare bacterial infection. It can cause life-threatening illness at any age, but is particularly dangerous for young children. The bacteria live in the throat. They are spread in respiratory secretions by direct person-to-person contact (for example, kissing), and indirectly on hands or on mouthed toys' or objects. Meningococcal infection may cause meningitis or septicaemia (blood stream infection). Symptoms of meningitis include fever, vomiting, headache, irritability, fitting and neck stiffness (see meningitis, page 109). Symptoms of septicaemia include high fever and rash.


Incubation Period
3-4 days.


Infectious Period
The child is infectious as long as organisms are present in the nose and throat.


Controlling the Spread of Infection
If appropriate, public health authorities will arrange for other children and staff to be given a course of rifampicin by mouth and/or arrange vaccination.


Treatment
A special antibiotic (rifampicin) may be given to kill organisms present in the nose and throat. This antibiotic is not the sarhe as those used to treat the child's infection; it is an extra antibiotic given to prevent spread of the disease. A child with meningococcal infection will be treated in hospital with antibiotics.


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Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com