Meningococcal disease.
BACKGROUND
Despite significant advances in the prevention and management of Neisseria meningitidis infection, invasive meningococcal disease continues to occur with significant morbidity and mortality.


OBJECTIVE
This article aims to provide an overview of the aetiology, pathogenesis, transmission, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of meningococcal disease.


CONCLUSIONS
Neisseria meningitidis is now the commonest cause of meningitis and is a significant cause of septicaemia, particularly in children and young adults. The initial diagnosis may be difficult but early recognition and treatment is essential. Transmission occurs during close contact and prophylaxis is important to prevent invasive disease in contacts. The conjugate meningococcal C vaccine has recently been funded for all children aged 1-19 years in Australia.
Daley
Andrew J
AJ
Royal Children's and Royal Women's Hospitals, Melbourne, Victoria. andrew.daley@wch.org.au
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008589:Meningococcal Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy / Q000635:transmission; D022401:Meningococcal Vaccines; D010400:Penicillin G / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D022401:Meningococcal Vaccines; D010400:Penicillin G