Has there ever been an outbreak of meningitis?

Outbreaks of meningococcal disease are rare in the United States. In fact, only about 1 in 20 cases is related to outbreaks. However, outbreaks are unpredictable and the outcomes can be devastating to affected communities and organizations.

Where is the meningitis outbreak?

A deadly outbreak of meningitis has been declared in a northeastern province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the World Health Organization (WHO) have been supporting health authorities to deploy an initial emergency response team.

What caused meningitis outbreak?

Several different bacteria can cause meningitis. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis are the most frequent ones. N. meningitidis, causing meningococcal meningitis, is the one with the potential to produce large epidemics.

Can a vaccinated person carry meningitis?

Because the vaccines do not protect against all causes of meningitis, it is still possible that someone could receive the vaccine and still get meningitis from a different strain not protected by the vaccine. But the risk of contracting meningococcal meningitis is significantly lower after the vaccine.

Does CDC recommend meningitis B vaccine?

Meningococcal B vaccines are recommended for people 10 years or older who are at increased risk for serogroup B meningococcal disease, including: People at risk because of a serogroup B meningococcal disease outbreak. Anyone whose spleen is damaged or has been removed, including people with sickle cell disease.

How can you prevent a meningitis outbreak?

Prevention. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best defense against meningococcal disease. Maintaining healthy habits, like getting plenty of rest and not having close contact with people who are sick, also helps.

How do adults get meningitis?

Common bacteria or viruses that can cause meningitis can spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing eating utensils, a toothbrush or a cigarette. These steps can help prevent meningitis: Wash your hands. Careful hand-washing helps prevent the spread of germs.

What is mcv4p?

Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) is the preferred vaccine for those aged 2 to 55. Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV4) may be used if MCV4 is not available; it is also licensed for people older than 55. Both vaccines work well, and protect approximately 90 percent of those who get vaccinated.

What is the deadliest form of meningitis?

There are three basic kinds of meningitis: viral, bacterial, and fungal. Of these three, viral meningitis is the most common, but bacterial is the most dangerous.

What kills bacterial meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis requires immediate hospitalization. Early diagnosis and treatment will prevent brain damage and death. Bacterial meningitis is treated with intravenous antibiotics. There’s no specific antibiotic for bacterial meningitis.