City health officials have reported a large meningitis outbreak
in Brooklyn that has sickened 23 people. That group of cases,
over the past seven months, "is one of the largest outbreaks of
meningitis described in the U.S. literature in the last couple of
decades," said Health Commissioner Thomas R. Frieden.
Each year, 1,400 to 2,800 people nationwide do get sick from
meningococcus, including 30 to 40 cases in New York City, according
to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What is meningococcal
meningitis?
Meningococcal disease is a rare but potentially fatal bacterial
infection. The disease is expressed as either meningococcal
meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain
and spinal cord or meningococcemia, the presence of bacteria in the
blood.
How is the meningococcus germ
spread?
The meningococcus germ is spread by direct close contact with nose
or throat discharges of an infected person. Practicing Respiratory Etiquette is an important
measure that can prevent the spread of this contagious disease.
What are the symptoms?
High fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck and a rash are symptoms
of meningococcal disease. The symptoms may appear 2 to 10 days
after exposure, but usually within 5 days. Among people who develop
meningococcal disease, 10-15% die, in spite of treatment with
antibiotics. Of those who live, permanent brain damage, hearing
loss, kidney failure, loss of arms or legs, or chronic nervous
system problems can occur.
For further information please visit the NY State Department of
Health Web site and find out more
information on the meningococcal disease.
Gerard A. McEnerney
Assistant Vice President and Executive Director