Meningococcal Meningitis / Meningococcemia
Clinical Manifestations
Medical Emergency: Meningococcal meningitis is an acute inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord accompanied by symptoms that can include stiff neck, high fever, nausea, vomiting, and a petechial rash, possible urticaria, with pink macules or rarely vesicles. Meningococcemia is a bloodstream infection. The meningococcal bacteria are not particularly contagious. Spread, when it does occur, is usually person-to-person by airborne droplets, and direct contact with nose and throat discharges.
Incubation Period
From 2 to 10 days; commonly 3-4 days.
Period of Communicability
Until the meningococcus is no longer present in discharge from the nose and mouth; susceptible organisms will disappear from the nasopharynx within 24 hours after appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Applicable Laws For Indiana Schools
None Applicable.
School Nursing Implications
- Immediately call caregiver of child.
- Educate caregiver concerning urgency of receiving medical evaluation .
- Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is needed for close contacts and family members, and should be started within 24 hours of diagnosis of primary case or as soon as possible.
- Pprophylactic antibiotic treatment is not recommended for school contacts in most circumstances – consult local or state health authorities for guidance.
- Ensure child is receiving medical care.
- Consider sending letter to caregivers (sample letter available from the ISDH).
Related Sites/Additional Information
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/meningococcal_g.htm
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000608.htm
Meningococcal Disease Quick Facts
http;//www.immunize.org/catg.d/p2021.htm
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