Latest news with #Neisseriameningitidis
Health Line
39 minutes ago
- Health
- Health Line
What Are the Complications and Long-Term Risks of Meningitis
Meningococcal meningitis can lead to serious complications, such as hearing loss, scarring, or even amputation. Getting treatment early can prevent these outcomes. Meningitis is a condition characterized by swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Meningococcal meningitis occurs when the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis infects the meninges (tissues around the brain and spinal cord). Neisseria meningitidis can also infect the bloodstream. Meningococcal meningitis and bloodstream infections are two common types of meningococcal disease. An infection of the meninges can cause a dangerous buildup of pressure on the brain. Symptoms of infection may include: headache stiff neck confusion sensitivity to light high fever nausea skin rash vomiting Main complications of meningitis Meningococcal disease is fatal in about 10 to 15 people out of every 100 receiving a diagnosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The disease may lead to long-term complications in about 20% of those with the condition. Among the possible complications of meningococcal disease are: chronic pain scarring amputation hearing impairment vision impairment motor function impairment post-infection inflammatory syndromes arthritis post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) anxiety depression Some complications of meningococcal disease that require immediate medical attention are: septic shock seizures purpura fulminans (skin rash and possible organ failure) hydrocephalus (fluid buildup on the brain) cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (stroke) Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome (bleeding into the adrenal glands) subdural empyema (pus between layers of the brain's protective tissue) Bacteremia and septicemia One type of meningococcal disease is an infection of the tissues around the brain and spinal cord (meningococcal meningitis). Neisseria meningitidis can also infect the bloodstream, resulting in bacteremia or septicemia. Meningococcal septicemia is a dangerous form of bloodstream infection. The bacteria multiply and release toxins that can damage blood vessel linings. Bleeding into the skin or organs may occur. A characteristic dark purple rash may develop in the later stages. Other symptoms may include: fatigue vomiting cold hands and feet chills diarrhea rapid breathing severe aches or pains in the muscles, joints, chest, or belly. This form of infection also requires immediate care and can cause some of the most serious complications of meningococcal disease, such as: necrosis (skin death) hearing loss deafness seizures amputation skin scarring impaired blood flow to the organs heart failure Diagnosis and treatment Diagnosing meningococcal disease can be a challenge because early symptoms look like other conditions. When a doctor suspects meningococcal disease, they can test for the presence of bacteria in cerebrospinal fluid or blood. Getting a sample of spinal fluid requires a lumbar puncture procedure. Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment. Doctors typically start antibiotic treatment as soon as they suspect meningococcal disease to reduce the risk of serious complications. In some cases, someone with meningococcal disease will require hospitalization. Some types of care they might receive include: intensive care unit (ICU) admission and medications to help maintain a stable blood pressure, especially if it drops too low due to severe infection intravenous (IV) fluids and rehydration breathing and airway support blood transfusions wound and skin care How common are meningitis outbreaks? According to the CDC, there were 438 confirmed and probable cases of meningococcal disease in the United States in 2023. The recent rise in cases has been mostly linked to the serogroup Y strain of Neisseria meningitidis, one of several strains that can cause meningococcal disease. Serogroup Y has been spreading more frequently in recent years, contributing to localized outbreaks. Some groups are more at risk than others. Infants, teens, and young adults tend to have higher rates of developing an infection, as do people with certain medical conditions or those living in close quarters like college dorms or military barracks. Outbreaks also tend to occur in communities with lower vaccination rates or limited access to preventive care. That's why it's so important to recognize the signs, respond quickly to symptoms, and stay up to date with recommended vaccines, especially for people at a higher risk. Vaccines are available that help protect against different types of meningococcal disease, including the strains most often linked to outbreaks, such as serogroups A, C, W, Y, and B.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sanofi (SNY)'s MenQuadfi Becomes First MenACWY Vaccine Approved for Ages 6 Weeks and Up
The U.S. FDA has approved an expanded indication for Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY)'s quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine, MenQuadfi, now allowing its use in children as young as 6 weeks old. Previously approved for individuals aged 2 years and older, MenQuadfi by Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY) becomes the only MenACWY vaccine available for people from 6 weeks of age with no upper age limit. The vaccine protects against invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, W, and Y, a critical step, as infants are at the highest risk for IMD, which can be rapidly fatal. A closeup of a vial of the biotechnology company's vaccines. The new dosing schedule includes a 4-dose series for infants starting at 2, 4, 6, and 12–18 months, and a 2-dose series for those 6–23 months, with a single dose for those 2 years and older. Clinical trials involving over 6,000 participants demonstrated MenQuadfi's safety and strong immune response, comparable to other licensed vaccines. Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY)'s vaccine is supplied as a ready-to-use liquid in single-dose vials, streamlining administration. This expansion comes amid a recent rise in U.S. meningococcal disease cases, particularly serogroup Y, which MenQuadfi covers. The CDC's Advisory Committee is expected to discuss implementation recommendations next month. While we acknowledge the potential of SNY to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than SNY and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about this READ NEXT: and Disclosure: None.
The Hindu
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
US FDA approves use of Sanofi's meningococcal vaccine in infants
French drugmaker Sanofi said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved its meningococcal vaccine for use in infants as young as six weeks, making it the first shot intended for the age group. The vaccine, branded as MenQuadfi, is already approved for individuals aged two years and older to protect against the four most common strains of meningococcal bacteria - A, C, W and Y, the company said on 23 May 2025. Meningococcal infections, caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, can cause serious, sometimes deadly, bloodstream infections, as well as severe swelling in the brain and spinal cord. British drugmaker GSK's shot Menveo is approved in children as young as two months and adults up to 55 years of age. "I think for convenience factor and accessibility... it is nice to have options," said Patty Sabey, a paediatrician with Stanford Medicine Children's Health, ahead of the decision. The approval was based on data from three late-stage studies involving more than 6,000 participants aged six weeks to 19 months, which showed that MenQuadfi was as effective as Menveo when co-administered with other routine paediatric vaccines. Sabey said meningococcal vaccine is not a routine vaccine for infants in the U.S. even though young infants, especially under one year, are at higher risk of infection. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends all adolescents aged 11 to 12 years should receive a meningococcal vaccine, followed by a booster dose at age 16 years. The agency also recommends that individuals aged two months and older who are at increased risk of the disease should receive the vaccine. According to preliminary data from the CDC, 503 confirmed and probable cases of meningococcal disease were reported last year, the highest since 2013.
Perth Now
23-05-2025
- Health
- Perth Now
Stay safe: Six diseases to protect yourself against
Living in WA, we're lucky to have strong protection against numerous infectious diseases, giving us a safety net that shields us from some real nasties. But what exactly are these diseases, and why should you care? Here's a rundown of six diseases that West Aussies can be protected from: HPV is a highly contagious virus that can cause a range of health issues, from genital warts to certain cancers, including cervical cancer. It can be transmitted through sexual contact or even small cuts in the skin. The HPV vaccine, offered free to Year 7 students across WA, is recommended for everyone before they become sexually active. Getting vaccinated early ensures strong protection against these serious health risks. Meningococcal disease is one you don't want to mess with. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to severe infections such as meningitis and septicaemia (a serious bloodstream infection). It spreads easily, especially in close quarters, so getting vaccinated is a no-brainer, particularly for teens and young adults. In WA, we've got vaccines for the B and ACWY strains, which offer solid protection against these life-threatening infections. The MenACWY vaccine is free for all children aged 12 months and for all Year 10 students. Catch up programs are also available for people under the age of twenty. Aboriginal children and those with medical risk conditions can also get the MenB vaccine for free. The flu—sounds harmless, right? But influenza can be a real headache, especially for the elderly, young kids, and those with chronic health conditions. The annual flu vaccine is a must for all West Aussies aged six months and older to keep the flu at bay and is recommended to help reduce the risk of flu and its complications. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease and even liver cancer. Hepatitis B is spread via blood and other bodily fluids. Examples include from mum to baby at birth or from person to person when sharing needles, sexual contact or through contact with open wounds. The hepatitis B vaccine is part of the standard immunisation schedule for infants (which is free) and is also available for adults at risk. Whooping cough is a nasty, easily spread respiratory disease that's known for causing severe, uncontrollable coughing fits. It's particularly dangerous for infants and young children, who can have serious complications such as bacterial pneumonia, seizures, inflammation of the brain, or even death. The vaccine is given to babies, with boosters recommended for: those who have not had the vaccine in the past 10 years; parents when they are planning a pregnancy; for other adult household members, grandparents and carers of infants under 12 months of age; and for adults working with young children, especially health care and childcare workers. Protecting the littlest West Aussies is key, and the vaccine is the best way to do it. Measles is a highly infectious viral illness known for its distinctive red rash. It spreads through airborne droplets and remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours. It primarily affects the respiratory system, often leading to serious complications like pneumonia or encephalitis (brain inflammation). The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles and is part of the routine immunisation schedule for children, helping to maintain community immunity and prevent outbreaks. While the measles is not so common in Australia, it is still very prevalent in Europe and other holiday destinations. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent these serious diseases. West Aussies are encouraged to stay up to date with their immunisations to protect themselves and their community, especially if travelling overseas. For more information about vaccination programs and to schedule your immunisations, visit the WA Health Immunisation website . Stay informed, stay protected, and keep our community safe!
Hindustan Times
02-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Share vapes and drinks with friends? Doctors reveal if it increases the risk of meningitis
Does sharing vapes, also known as e-cigarettes or electronic cigarettes, and drinks potentially increase the risk of various infectious diseases, including meningitis? According to doctors, the risk of spreading meningitis through shared vapes and drinks is heightened in environments where individuals are in close proximity, such as parties, festivals, or social gatherings. Also read | Viral meningitis scare hits Kerala private school, classes halted 'In such scenarios, the likelihood of coming into contact with respiratory droplets or saliva increases significantly. Certain strains of bacteria, such as Neisseria meningitidis, which is known to cause meningococcal meningitis, can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's saliva,' Dr Keni Ravish Rajiv, senior consultant, neurology and head of epilepsy service, Aster CMI Hospital told HT Lifestyle. Dr Parul Dubey, consultant neurology, Manipal Hospital, Goa said that meningitis means infection of the coverings of the brain, which manifests as fever, headache, vomiting, seizures (when brain tissue also gets infected), and many other serious neurological signs and symptoms. She added, 'Meningitis means infection of the coverings of the brain, which manifests as fever, headache, vomiting, seizures (when brain tissue also gets infected), and many other serious neurological signs and symptoms. The common bacteria causing meningitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis, and many others. It's noteworthy that the bacterium causing tuberculosis can also cause meningitis. Viruses, fungi, and parasites can lead to brain infections, too.' Dr Keni said that meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections – among these, bacterial meningitis is particularly severe and can be life-threatening. He explained, 'The pathogens responsible for this condition can be present in saliva, which means that sharing items such as vapes or drinks could facilitate the transfer of these infectious agents. When individuals share these items, they inadvertently exchange saliva, which may harbour bacteria or viruses that can lead to meningitis.' Dr Parul said that meningitis can be a life-threatening condition and demands urgent medical attention as it has serious complications if not treated timely. Most bacteria that cause meningitis are carried in the human nose and throat, she said, adding: 'They spread from person to person by respiratory droplets or throat secretions through droplet transmission. Group B streptococcus, which can be carried in the human intestine or vagina, can spread from mother to child around the time of birth.' According to Dr Parul, coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing utensils, and smoking or vaping can all contribute to the spread of infectious organisms that may eventually reach the brain. She further said, 'These activities, along with prolonged contact or sexual interaction with an infected person, increase the risk of transmission and brain infections.' According to Dr Keni, preventive measures are essential to mitigate the risk of meningitis transmission through shared vapes and drinks. He said, 'Individuals should be encouraged to refrain from sharing these items, especially if they are experiencing symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone diagnosed with meningitis. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and using personal drinking containers, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.' According to Dr Parul, it's important to recall the hygiene habits we learned as children at home and school, such as covering our mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, wearing a mask when sick with a respiratory infection, turning our head away during a coughing or sneezing episode, and washing hands properly to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infections. She said, 'Kissing an infected person, sharing glasses, and smoking can similarly directly transmit the causative organism. Therefore, such things are best avoided, and one must be vigilant before engaging in these practices and behaviours. These simple steps can help stave off a myriad of infections that could affect not just the brain but also other body organs. Knowing basic hygiene and the possible medical ramifications of seemingly innocuousbehaviors, particularly in adolescents and young adults, can safeguard them against disease — and, in certain instances, early death.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
