Health officer confirms case of Neisseria meningitidis in Mobile County
MOBILE COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) — Mobile County Health Officer Dr. Kevin Michaels has confirmed a case of bacterial infection Neisseria meningitidis in the county.
According to a news release from the Mobile County Health Department, this is the first case reported in Mobile County in 2025.
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Mobile County health officials said Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcal disease, can cause meningitis, which is a severe swelling of the brain and spinal cord membranes, or meningococcemia, which is a severe blood infection.
The disease is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, intense headache, nausea and often vomiting. It can lead to serious complications including death, according to MCHD.
Health officials said the bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets from the nose and throat. It can transmitted through close, prolonged or intimate contact and is most common during winter and spring.
According to MCHD, post exposure treatment with antibiotics may be indicated for those who may have been exposed.
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Dr. Michaels said, 'that anyone can get the disease, and it is important to seek medical attention if you have symptoms. Symptoms of meningococcal disease can first appear as a flu-like illness and rapidly worsen.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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