Meningococcemia
Definition
Meningococcemia is an acute and potentially life-threatening infection of the bloodstream that commonly leads to vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels).
See also: Septicemia
Alternative Names
Meningococcal septicemia; Meningococcal blood poisoning; Meningococcal bacteremiaCauses
Meningococcemia is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. The bacteria frequently lives in a person's upper respiratory tract without causing visible signs of illness. The bacteria can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets -- for example, you may become infected if you are around someone with the condition when they sneeze or cough.
Family members and those closely exposed to someone with the condition are at increased risk. The infection occurs more frequently in winter and early spring.
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