Meningococcus is a bacteria found in one in ten people. Nestled deep in the throat, it generally remains silent … Except in rare cases, for reasons little known. She then sets her sights on young subjects, children and adolescents. Result ? infection fluid and membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord: meningitis. The outcome is favorable in 5 out of 6 cases, if the treatment is rapid1.

Signs that worry

Two symptoms suggest a diagnosis of meningitis:

• a high fever accompanied severe headaches
• one or more red spots (or purpura) that do not disappear when pressed.

The clues that can guide the doctor:

• stiff neck
• discomfort to light and noise

A fragile bacteria …

The bacteria are fragile and have difficulty surviving outside their natural environment, the back of the throat. Present in the saliva, it is transmitted only from person to person, at short distance (kisses or postilions). This explains why it is not necessary to isolate people who have been in contact with patients1.

How to protect yourself?

Un meningococcal C vaccine exists since 2010. It is recommended and reimbursed for children, adolescents and young adults, from 1 to 24 years old2.

For more information: Info-Méningococci, the information site on invasive meningococcal infections of Inpes and the Ministry in charge of Health.