Meningococcal outbreak continues in Virginia, vaccination is key

The Commonwealth of Virginia continues to experience an outbreak of meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious illness caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitis.

The two most common types of meningococcal infections are infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (called meningitis) and bloodstream infections (septicemia). Both types of infections are severe and can be deadly in a matter of hours. Keeping up with vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) first reported an outbreak in June 2022, and in March 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also issued a health advisory alerting healthcare providers of increased cases.

How meningococcal disease spreads

The bacteria that cause meningococcal disease are spread by exchanging respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit) during close or lengthy contact. People do not catch the bacteria through casual contact or breathing air where someone with meningococcal disease has been.

Those at risk of contracting the disease from an infected individual typically include:

• Household members
• Roommates
• Anyone who has had direct contact with the infected person’s mucus, such as through kissing

Symptoms of meningococcal disease and septicemia

Signs of meningococcal disease and septicemia are similar. They often develop rapidly and may include:

• Chills: Severe chills and shivering
• Cold hands and feet: Feeling unusually cold in the extremities
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating: Mental fogginess or inability to focus
• Decreased urine output: Reduced urination, indicating potential kidney involvement
• Extreme fatigue: Severe weakness and exhaustion
• Fever: Sudden high fever
• Low blood pressure: A drop in blood pressure, which can lead to shock
• Nausea and vomiting: Unexplained nausea and vomiting
• Pale, cool and clammy skin: Unusual paleness and cold, clammy skin
• Rapid heartbeat: Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing: Fast or difficult breathing
• Rash: A distinctive purple or red rash that doesn’t fade under pressure
• Sensitivity to light: Discomfort or pain in the eyes when exposed to light (photophobia)
• Severe headache: Intense and persistent headache
• Severe muscle pain: Muscle aches or pain
• Stiff neck: Difficulty and pain when moving the neck

If you suspect meningococcal disease or septicemia, seek medical attention immediately, as these conditions can rapidly progress and become life-threatening.

Vaccinate against meningococcal disease

A meningococcal vaccination is available for meningococcal disease. Parents and adults should check their vaccination records to ensure their MenACWY vaccinations are up-to-date.

Schools and daycares require a minimum of two doses of the meningococcal vaccine, with the first dose administered before entering 7th grade. Children between 11 and 12 and those at increased risk should be vaccinated. Children aged 16 should also receive a booster dose.

Certain groups are at a higher risk for developing serious illness if they come in contact with the bacteria that causes meningitis. A MenACWY booster is recommended every five years for people at increased risk due to medical conditions. People at high risk include:

• Anyone with complement component deficiency, an immune disorder
• Anyone taking a type of medicine called a “complement inhibitor”
• Anyone whose spleen is damaged or has been removed, including people with sickle cell disease
• People with HIV

Vaccination reduces the risk of meningitis, but it does not treat it. Although it is still possible to contract meningitis after receiving this vaccine, the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. The vaccine works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

Protect your loved ones

Schedule an appointment with your family’s care team to ensure you are up-to-date on your vaccinations, including against meningococcal disease.