Why is it in the news?
Meghalaya issued a health advisory after the death of two Agniveer trainees in Shillong.
Suspected meningococcal bacterial infection at Assam Regimental Centre.
Category: Science and Tech
Important Points:
● Caused by bacterium Neisseria meningitidis
● Leads to meningitis or meningococcemia (blood infection/sepsis)
● Spreads through direct contact with nose/throat discharges
● More common in infants under 5, teenagers, young adults (16–23)
● Higher risk in crowded settings like dormitories and military barracks
● Mortality roughly 10–15% even with treatment
● Immediate antibiotic treatment crucial
● WHO-recommended Men5CV vaccine protects against five main causes of meningococcal meningitis