In recent months, there has been a concerning increase in meningitis cases across the United States. Warnings have been issued, and campaigns have been launched to increase awareness about this potentially deadly disease. Typically, between 1,000 to 2,600 cases of bacterial meningitis are found yearly in the United States. Despite appropriate treatment, about 10–15% of these cases result in death. It isn’t uncommon for those infected to experience mild symptoms and die within 24 hours. That’s why it’s essential to understand the risks and learn about prevention.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord protective membranes, known as the meninges. Various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, can cause it. The severity and treatment of meningitis depends on its cause. Bacterial meningitis, for example, is often more severe and can be fatal if not treated, whereas viral meningitis tends to be less severe and often resolves without specific treatment.
Meningitis Vaccination Recommendations
Age Groups for Meningitis Vaccination:
- Children and Adolescents
First Dose: Children should receive their first meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) dose at 11 to 12 years old.
Booster Dose: A booster dose is recommended at age 16 to provide continued protection when they are at the highest risk.
2. Young Adults:
If a teenager misses getting the vaccine at the recommended age, it’s essential to get vaccinated as soon as possible, especially before entering college or university, mainly if living in a dormitory setting.
3. Infants and Young Children:
Some infants and young children (ages 2 months to 10 years) may need the meningococcal vaccine if they have certain health conditions, such as a damaged spleen or no spleen, or if they are traveling to or residing in areas where meningococcal disease is common.
4. Adults:
Adults who are first-year college students living in a residence hall and have not been vaccinated need the MenACWY vaccine.
Military recruits should also receive the vaccine.
Adults with certain medical conditions or those traveling to areas where the disease is common should also be vaccinated.
Booster Shots:
- The primary booster dose should be given at age 16. Still, additional booster shots may be recommended for individuals at continued risk, such as those with certain medical conditions, travelers to high-risk areas, and individuals in outbreak situations.
Who Meningitis Affects the Most
- Infants and Young Children:
Infants under 1 year of age are at higher risk because their immune systems are not fully developed.
2. Adolescents and Young Adults:
Teenagers and young adults (16–23 years) are at higher risk due to lifestyle factors, such as close living quarters in dormitories.
3. Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions:
People with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV, asplenia (no spleen), or complement component deficiencies, are at increased risk.
4. Travelers to High-Risk Areas:
Individuals traveling to parts of the world where meningococcal disease is more common, such as the “meningitis belt” in sub-Saharan Africa, are at higher risk.
5. Communities with Outbreaks:
Specific communities or populations can be at higher risk during outbreaks and may need targeted vaccination efforts.
Vaccination is a crucial preventative measure against meningitis. To ensure continued protection, it’s essential to follow the recommended vaccination schedule and be aware of booster shot requirements, especially for those in high-risk groups.
Recent Increase in Cases
Several factors have contributed to the recent rise in meningitis cases in the United States. Public health experts point to increased population density in certain areas, vaccination coverage changes, and travel.
In 2023, the United States reported 422 cases of meningitis, marking the highest number since 2014. By March 2024, there have already been 143 cases, indicating a potential increase compared to the previous year.
A specific strain, sequence type (ST) 1466, has recently surged in the United States. This strain accounted for 68% of serogroup Y cases with available sequence data in 2023. The majority of these cases have disproportionately affected specific demographics, such as people ages 30 to 60, Black Americans, and people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Potential Consequences of Contracting Meningitis
Meningitis is a severe condition involving inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If not treated promptly, it can lead to severe health complications and even death.
Here are some potential consequences:
Immediate Symptoms:
- Severe Headache: One of the most common and severe symptoms.
- Fever: Often high and accompanied by chills.
- Stiff Neck: Difficulty moving the neck due to inflammation.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Can occur frequently.
- Sensitivity to Light: Also known as photophobia.
- Altered Mental State: Confusion, lethargy, or difficulty waking up.
Short-Term Complications:
- Sepsis: Blood poisoning that can lead to shock and organ failure.
- Seizures: Due to increased pressure on the brain.
- Hearing Loss: Can occur during or after recovery.
- Vision Problems: Including sensitivity to light and temporary or permanent vision loss.
- Joint Pain: Due to inflammation.
Long-Term Consequences:
- Cognitive Impairments: Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive issues.
- Learning Disabilities: Especially in children, who may experience developmental delays.
- Motor Skills Impairment: Difficulty with coordination and movement.
- Hearing Loss: Can be permanent and may require hearing aids or other interventions.
- Amputations: In severe cases of meningococcal meningitis, sepsis can lead to tissue damage and the need for amputations.
Life-Threatening Risks:
- Brain Damage: Due to prolonged inflammation and increased intracranial pressure.
- Stroke: Caused by inflammation of blood vessels in the brain.
- Coma: Prolonged unconsciousness due to severe brain swelling.
- Death: Meningitis can be fatal if not treated promptly and effectively.
Psychological Impact:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Due to the severe nature of the illness and hospitalization.
- Anxiety and Depression: Ongoing mental health issues resulting from the experience and long-term complications.
Prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment are crucial to reducing the risk of severe complications and improving outcomes for those who contract meningitis. Vaccination is an effective preventative measure against the disease.
Prevention and Vaccination
Routine immunization can go a long way toward preventing meningitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following vaccines:
● MenACWY Vaccine: Protects against four types of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y). It is recommended for preteens and teens.
● MenB Vaccine: Protects against serogroup B meningococcal bacteria and is recommended for people aged 16–23.
● Pneumococcal Vaccine: Protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can cause bacterial meningitis.
● Hib Vaccine: Protects against Haemophilus influenza type b, another bacterial cause of meningitis.
Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations is crucial, especially when specific diseases increase within the community.
The recent rise in meningitis cases in the United States reminds us of the importance of understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and prioritizing prevention through vaccination. Most cases of bacterial meningitis start to appear in the winter and spring, underscoring the need for heightened awareness, particularly in settings such as schools, college campuses, and other communal environments where the disease can spread rapidly.
Sources:
CDC: Cases of Meningococcal Disease Are Increasing in the United States