How is the bacterium that causes meningococcal disease spread?
The bacterium is spread by direct, close contact with respiratory and oral secretions (saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus) of an infected person. Close contacts include household members, day care contacts, and anyone exposed to the patient’s oral or nasal excretions. Many people carry this bacterium in their nose and throat without signs of illness, while others develop serious symptoms. Infected persons should be excluded from school, work, and etc. until at least 24 hours after beginning therapy and the illness has subsided. What is the treatment? Antibiotics are the treatment of choice. How can I reduce my chances of becoming infected? Practice good hand washing, don’t share drinks or kiss people that are ill. Also there is a vaccine to protect against four of the groups of meningococcus. Where can I get vaccinated and what is the cost? Currently the vaccine is available at the Sedgwick County Health Department For 90$. It is not available at the Cowley County Health Department. Some p
