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Meningococcus refers to the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It is a significant cause of bacterial meningitis and sepsis in humans. This bacterium is Gram-negative and diplococcal, meaning it appears as pairs of spherical cells. N. meningitidis colonizes the nasopharynx of asymptomatic carriers, and transmission occurs through respiratory droplets, such as through coughing or sneezing.

While many carriers show no symptoms, N. meningitidis can invade the bloodstream and central nervous system, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening diseases. The most common manifestations are meningococcal meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and meningococcal sepsis, a systemic infection of the bloodstream. Symptoms can include fever, headache, stiff neck, rash, and a rapid decline in health.

There are several serogroups of N. meningitidis, identified by polysaccharide capsules. Serogroups A, B, C, W, and Y are responsible for the majority of meningococcal disease worldwide. Different serogroups are more prevalent in specific geographic regions and age groups.

Vaccination is a primary strategy for preventing meningococcal disease. Vaccines are available that target specific serogroups, offering protection against the most common and dangerous strains. Public health efforts focus on vaccination campaigns, particularly for adolescents and young adults, and prompt diagnosis and treatment of infected individuals. Antibiotics are effective in treating meningococcal infections.