CDC alerts doctors to watch for a rare, serious bacterial infection

CNN
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Health officials are warning doctors to be aware of a certain type of rare and serious meningococcal infection that is on the rise in the United States.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated: new health alert These infections are thought to be caused by certain strains of Neisseria meningitidis and may have unusual symptoms. About one in six people has died from confirmed cases so far this year, which is higher than the fatality rate typically seen for meningococcal infections.

These cases are also unusual in that they affect middle-aged adults. Meningitis infections usually occur in infants, adolescents, and young adults.

The CDC warning was issued after the Virginia Department of Health warned of 5 deaths In September, a similarly rare and serious case of meningococcal disease was confirmed.

Meningococcal disease refers to the disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Infection can cause both meningitis and a serious bloodstream infection called sepsis or sepsis.

The bacteria can be spread from person to person through exchange of respiratory and throat secretions, usually by kissing, coughing, sneezing, or close contact with another person who is infected.

There are four different groups of meningococci known to be prevalent in the United States: B, C, W, and Y. According to the CDC, 422 cases of illnesses caused by these bacteria were reported in the United States in 2023, the highest number ever. Most of them were caused by a specific strain ST-1466 belonging to the Y subgroup.

We are currently on track to surpass that number by 2024. To date, 143 cases have been reported in the United States, which is almost 80% more than cases reported during the same period in 2023.

According to the CDC, most people diagnosed with the disease are adults between the ages of 30 and 60. The number of cases is 63% black and 15% infected with HIV.

Typical symptoms of meningitis infection include fever, headache, stiff shoulders, aversion to light, and nausea. Many recently reported cases do not have these symptoms. About two-thirds of patients have bloodstream infections, and about 4% have painful, infected joints.

Symptoms of meningococcal bloodstream infection include fever and chills, fatigue, vomiting, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, diarrhea, and in later stages, a dark purple rash.

The CDC says the initial symptoms are similar to various infections, but they worsen quickly and can become life-threatening within hours. Immediate treatment with antibiotics is important. Survivors may suffer long-term effects such as hearing loss and amputation of arms and legs.

There is a vaccine to prevent bacterial meningitis. Recommended for children ages 11 to 12, but a booster shot is usually given at age 16 because protection is less strong. It is also recommended for people with certain medical conditions that impair immune function, such as HIV. The CDC says people in vulnerable groups should receive a booster dose of this vaccine every three to five years.