Health officials in the United States have issued a warning about a rise in rare bacterial illnesses that can result in meningitis and potentially death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted U.S. doctors to an increase in cases of invasive meningococcal disease, primarily caused by a specific strain of bacteria.
In 2023, there were 422 cases of this disease reported in the U.S., the highest number since 2014. Already in 2024, 143 cases have been reported, indicating a potential surpassing of the previous year. While most cases in 2023 did not involve meningitis, at least 17 resulted in death.
Adults aged 30 to 60, Black individuals, and people with HIV were disproportionately affected by the disease. Cases were detected in 20 states last year, with Texas and Virginia health departments warning of increased incidences.
Symptoms of meningococcal disease include meningitis, which causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, as well as a bloodstream infection. These can present with symptoms like fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, diarrhea, and a dark purple rash that does not fade when pressed.
It is crucial for infections to be treated promptly with antibiotics as symptoms of a bloodstream infection can worsen rapidly. Approximately 10-15% of infected individuals die, and survivors may experience complications such as deafness or amputations.
Vaccines against meningococcal disease are available, and all children are recommended to receive a meningococcal conjugate vaccine around the time they enter middle school, with a booster dose at age 16. This is especially important for individuals at higher risk, such as those in outbreak areas or with certain medical conditions like HIV.
The CDC stated in a recent health alert that infections caused by a specific strain of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria may present with atypical symptoms. The cases documented in 2024 have shown a higher fatality rate compared to typical meningococcal infections, affecting middle-aged adults rather than infants or adolescents.
Health officials are concerned about the rise in cases of this particular strain, known as ST-1466, within the Y subgroup. Cases are predominantly affecting adults aged 30 to 60, with a higher percentage among Black individuals and those with HIV.
Meningococcal disease, caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, can lead to meningitis and septicemia. The bacteria spread through respiratory and throat secretions via close contact, like kissing or coughing.
The CDC reported four groups of meningococcal bacteria circulating in the U.S. – B, C, W, and Y. In 2023, there were 422 cases of disease caused by these bacteria, predominantly due to the ST-1466 strain within the Y subgroup.
With 143 cases already reported in 2024, an increase from the same period last year, health officials stress the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking immediate treatment. The availability of vaccines to prevent bacterial meningitis is highlighted, especially for children, adolescents, and high-risk individuals. Regular booster doses are recommended for continued protection, particularly for those with compromised immune systems.
