Meningitis caused by N. meningitidis: How to prevent this “younger generation killer”?

Abstract

Neisseria meningitidis is a gram-negative bacterium that inhabits the mucosal surface of the nasopharynx in approximately 10% of healthy persons. It stands out as a leading etiology of meningitis, particularly among children, adolescents, and young adults. Meningococcal infections account for an estimated 1.2 million cases annually worldwide, with a death toll exceeding 135,000. These infections are most prevalent in the “meningitis belt” of sub-Saharan Africa and have historically occurred in cyclic patterns in China. Chemoprophylaxis using antibiotics like rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone is effective in eliminating bacterial carriage and preventing disease spread. Vaccination represents another crucial preventive measure. This review provides an overview of meningococcal meningitis, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, chemoprophylaxis with antibiotics like ceftriaxone, and vaccination as key strategies to combat this deadly disease, particularly among vulnerable populations like infants, adolescents, and young adults.