Meningokokkale

Meningokokkale, in Norwegian medical usage, refers to meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis, a Gram-negative diplococcus that colonizes the human nasopharynx. Most carriers are asymptomatic, but transmission occurs through close contact with respiratory droplets or oral secretions. Carriage and spread are influenced by age, social conditions, and immune status, and outbreaks can occur in settings such as dormitories or military barracks.

The disease presents mainly as meningitis or meningococcemia, or both. Incubation is typically 2 to 10 days. Early symptoms include fever, headache, and neck stiffness; a purpuric rash may develop with meningococcemia. Rapid progression can lead to septic shock and multi-organ failure. Less common manifestations include pneumonia, arthritis, or conjunctivitis.

Diagnosis relies on lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, Gram stain, culture, and/or PCR, with blood cultures also informative. Prompt antibiotic therapy is essential; empiric regimens commonly include ceftriaxone or high-dose penicillin, adjusted as needed after susceptibility results. Close contacts require chemoprophylaxis to prevent secondary cases, using rifampin, ciprofloxacin, or ceftriaxone.

Prevention relies on vaccination against several meningococcal serogroups (A, C, W, Y, and B vaccines in available regimens) and public health measures. Routine vaccination is common in many countries, supplemented by targeted immunization during outbreaks. Surveillance and rapid outbreak response are central to control of meningococcal disease.

Epidemiology varies by region and season; meningococcal disease is uncommon but can cause severe illness and death if not treated promptly. Early recognition and treatment improve outcomes, with higher mortality risk among infants and those presenting with septic shock.