Invasive Meningococcal disease and its prevention in children

Invasive Meningococcal Disease (IMD) is a severe infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions such as meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes) and bloodstream infections. Symptoms often include high fever,...

• Invasive Meningococcal Disease (IMD) is a life-threatening infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, often manifesting as meningitis and septicemia, with a high mortality rate if untreated. While it's vaccine-preventable, its severity necessitates discussion, particularly regarding prevention in children. The bacteria has 13 serogroups, with A, B, C, Y, X, and W being the most common causes of epidemics globally. Serogroups A and C are more prevalent in Asia and Africa, while B and C are dominant in Europe and North/South America.