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Meningococcal Disease

All articles tagged with #meningococcal disease

Two Die in Chicago Meningococcal Cluster, Health Officials Warn
health27 days ago

Two Die in Chicago Meningococcal Cluster, Health Officials Warn

Two people in Chicago have died in a cluster of meningococcal infections (Neisseria meningitidis), with seven cases reported since Jan. 15; Chicago typically sees 10-15 such infections in winter. The disease spreads through saliva and requires close, lengthy contact, and symptoms can resemble a common illness before worsening rapidly. Officials urge immediate medical care if symptoms appear (stiff neck, sensitivity to light, severe aches, vomiting, or a dark rash). Illinois recommends MenACWY vaccination at ages 11-12 with a booster at 16.

Chicago faces meningococcal outbreak as two die and cases rise
health1 month ago

Chicago faces meningococcal outbreak as two die and cases rise

The Chicago Department of Public Health warned of an uptick in meningococcal disease after seven adult cases since Jan. 15, including two deaths and at least two cases linked to a homeless shelter. Chicago typically records 10–15 cases annually. Meningococcal infection can spread through saliva and may lead to sepsis, hearing loss, or limb loss, with a 10–15% mortality rate even with treatment. Officials stress vigilance and vaccination, noting concerns about recent CDC changes to the childhood vaccine schedule that could hinder herd protection in communities vulnerable to outbreaks.

Chicago faces uptick in meningococcal disease with two deaths
health1 month ago

Chicago faces uptick in meningococcal disease with two deaths

In Chicago, two people have died and at least seven others have meningococcal disease in the past two weeks—a spike above the usual annual total; the illness can progress rapidly and spreads mainly via close contact, with at least two cases tied to a homeless shelter. Officials say mortality is 10-20% even with antibiotics and urge vaccination; Illinois recommends ACWY vaccines for preteens with a booster at 16, and many medical groups advocate broader meningococcal vaccination amid a national uptick.

"Rising Threat: CDC Warns of Deadly Bacterial Illnesses in the US"
health1 year ago

"Rising Threat: CDC Warns of Deadly Bacterial Illnesses in the US"

US health officials are warning of an increase in rare bacterial illnesses, particularly serogroup Y meningococcal disease, which can lead to meningitis and be deadly. Last year saw the most cases since 2014, with 422 reported, and 143 cases have been reported so far this year. The CDC recommends meningococcal conjugate vaccines for children around age 11 and a second shot at age 16, as well as for higher-risk individuals, such as those with HIV infection or other health conditions. Symptoms of the disease include high body temperature, head and upper body pain, nausea, vomiting, and more.

"Weekend Wellness: Eclipse Eye Safety, Anti-Diet Advice, and Bird Flu Warnings"
health1 year ago

"Weekend Wellness: Eclipse Eye Safety, Anti-Diet Advice, and Bird Flu Warnings"

Fox News Digital's health coverage includes warnings about the dangers of staring at the sun during the upcoming solar eclipse, concerns about a potential bird flu pandemic, the White House declaring April 2024 as Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, a tech entrepreneur using AI to fight cancer after losing his wife to the disease, and a new study suggesting ice as a potential alternative treatment for breast cancer. Additionally, the CDC warns of a rise in invasive bacterial infections, researchers at the University of Central Florida are studying an experimental drug to ease menopause effects, and a physician explains the reasons and remedies for nighttime coughs in a weekly Ask a Doc series.

"CDC Issues Alert for Surging Cases of Rare and Life-Threatening Bacterial Infections"

"CDC Issues Alert for Surging Cases of Rare and Life-Threatening Bacterial Infections"

The CDC has issued an alert about a rise in cases of meningococcal disease in the US, while other headlines include a shooting at a Finnish primary school, Biden's proclamation of a transgender holiday on Easter, and a warning about the conflict in Gaza. Laura Ingraham criticizes the White House for not condemning pro-Hamas protesters at New York's Saint Patrick's Cathedral, and other news covers topics ranging from media to American culture and weather.

CDC Issues Alert for Surge in Rare and Deadly Bacterial Infections
health1 year ago

CDC Issues Alert for Surge in Rare and Deadly Bacterial Infections

The CDC has issued an alert about a spike in invasive bacterial infections, particularly meningococcal disease caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, with 422 cases reported in 2021 and 143 cases so far in 2022. A specific strain, serogroup Y ST-1466, is affecting adults aged 30-60, Black or African American individuals, and those with HIV, with a higher fatality rate of 18%. Symptoms include fever, stiff neck, and a dark purple rash, and transmission can occur through close contact. Vaccines are available to protect against certain variations, and prompt antibiotic treatment is crucial.

CDC Warns of Rising Cases of Meningococcal Disease
health1 year ago

CDC Warns of Rising Cases of Meningococcal Disease

The CDC has issued an alert to healthcare providers about a rise in bacterial infections, specifically a strain of meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y, which has seen 140 reported cases in 2024 targeting adults aged 30 to 60. Those at higher risk include Black and African Americans or individuals with HIV. Symptoms of the disease include meningitis and bloodstream infection, with Virginia currently experiencing a statewide outbreak. Awareness of symptoms and prompt medical attention are crucial in addressing this concerning trend.

CDC Alerts Doctors to Surge in Meningitis-Causing Bacterial Infections
health1 year ago

CDC Alerts Doctors to Surge in Meningitis-Causing Bacterial Infections

The CDC has issued an alert about a rise in bacterial infections, specifically a strain of meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y, which has targeted adults aged 30 to 60 and is particularly affecting Black or African Americans and those with HIV. There are two types of infections stemming from this disease: meningitis and septicemia, each with distinct symptoms. The state of Virginia is currently dealing with a statewide outbreak, with 35 confirmed cases and 6 deaths. It's important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

CDC Issues Alert as Cases of Meningitis-Causing Bacteria Surge
health1 year ago

CDC Issues Alert as Cases of Meningitis-Causing Bacteria Surge

The US CDC has issued an alert warning about the rising cases of invasive meningococcal disease, caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, with 422 cases reported in 2021, the highest since 2014. The disease, which can be deadly with a 10-15% fatality rate, presents as meningitis or bloodstream infections and can lead to long-term effects. Cases have disproportionately affected 30- to 60-year-olds, Black people, and those with HIV, with a higher fatality rate than in previous years. The CDC urges healthcare providers to be vigilant, especially among at-risk populations, and ensure that recommended vaccinations are up to date.

CDC Warns of Spike in Rare and Severe Meningococcal Disease Cases
health1 year ago

CDC Warns of Spike in Rare and Severe Meningococcal Disease Cases

The CDC has issued a warning about a spike in meningococcal disease, a rare bacterial illness that can lead to meningitis, with 143 cases reported in the U.S. as of March 25. Symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, and a dark purple rash, and the disease can be transmitted through respiratory and throat secretions. Treatment involves antibiotics, and vaccines are recommended for children entering middle school and for those at higher risk.

CDC Alert: Spike in Rare Bacterial Infection Linked to Meningitis and Deaths
health1 year ago

CDC Alert: Spike in Rare Bacterial Infection Linked to Meningitis and Deaths

The CDC has issued an alert about an increase in cases of invasive meningococcal disease, caused by a rare strain of bacteria, which can lead to meningitis and even death. Last year saw the highest number of cases since 2014, with a disproportionate impact on adults aged 30 to 60, Black individuals, and those with HIV. Symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and a dangerous brain and spinal cord inflammation. Quick treatment with antibiotics is crucial, and vaccines are recommended for children and those at higher risk.

CDC Warns of Sharp Rise in Rare Bacterial Meningitis Cases in the US
health1 year ago

CDC Warns of Sharp Rise in Rare Bacterial Meningitis Cases in the US

The CDC warns of an increase in invasive meningococcal disease in the U.S., with 422 cases reported in 2023 and 143 cases already in 2024. Vulnerable demographics include infants, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those on certain medications. The agency urges heightened suspicion for the disease, recommends vaccination, and notes an uptick in infections caused by a specific strain of the bacteria. Symptoms can include meningitis, bloodstream infections, and septic arthritis, with rapid progression and potential life-threatening consequences. Immediate antibiotic treatment is critical, and survivors may experience long-term effects.

"Miami University Student Suspected of Meningococcal Disease"
health2 years ago

"Miami University Student Suspected of Meningococcal Disease"

A suspected case of meningococcal disease has been reported at Miami University in Oxford, prompting university officials to reassure the campus community that the overall risk is low. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets and saliva, with symptoms including fever, stiff neck, and headache. The Butler County General Health District is reaching out to students who may have been in close contact with the ill student to provide guidance and prophylactic treatment, while advising anyone experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.