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Published on: November 5, 2019
Meningococcal meningitis: an emerging infectious disease
Julie A Strunk1, Judith Townsend Rocchiccioli
1James Madison University School of Nursing, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807, USA. strunkja@jmu.edu
Journal of Community Health Nursing
|February 5, 2010
Summary
Meningococcal meningitis is a serious, preventable disease affecting young adults. Vaccination is crucial for protecting adolescents and college students from this potentially fatal illness.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Meningococcal meningitis is a potentially fatal infectious disease impacting individuals aged 15-24.
- Reported cases have risen in the last decade, contributing to preventable deaths.
- Adolescents and young adults represent nearly 30% of all US meningitis cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of meningococcal disease in young adults.
- To emphasize the preventable nature of these cases through vaccination.
- To underscore the importance of understanding disease processes, surveillance, diagnosis, and prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on meningococcal disease incidence in the US.
- Analysis of case statistics, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
- Examination of vaccination impact and prevention strategies.
Main Results:
- Meningococcal disease affects a significant portion of the 15-24 age group.
- Approximately 100-125 cases occur annually on US college campuses.
- At least 60% of these campus cases are preventable with vaccination.
Conclusions:
- Meningococcal meningitis poses a substantial risk to adolescents and young adults.
- Vaccination is a key preventive measure against meningococcal disease.
- Further understanding of the disease and promoting vaccination are essential for public health.
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