How is meningococcal disease caught?
People often carry the meningococcal bacteria harmlessly in their nose and throat without getting ill. As many as 2 out of every 10 people may carry the bacteria in their throats. This figure can sometimes be as high as 5 in every 10 in specific communities.The bacteria (meningococci) can be spread by close contact with someone who is carrying it. This happens usually without causing harm.
