Serogroup B
What is Serogroup B Meningococcal Disease?
Serogroup B meningococcal disease is an increasingly recognized cause of meningitis and other invasive diseases like sepsis in infants, children, and adolescents. It is caused by a specific type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis that is spread through close contact with an infected person by coughing, sneezing, or kissing.
Serogroup B meningococcal disease is one of the five major types of meningococcal infections, which also include serogroups A, C, W, and Y. Serogroup B is responsible for more than 90 percent of invasive meningococcal disease cases in the United States.
Signs and Symptoms of Serogroup B Meningococcal Disease
The signs and symptoms of serogroup B meningococcal disease can vary depending on the age of the person infected. In infants and children, common signs of serogroup B meningococcal disease can include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Stiff Neck
- Irritability
- Cold Hands and Feet
- Pale Skin
- Rash
Diagnosis and Treatment of Serogroup B Meningococcal Disease
Serogroup B meningococcal disease is typically diagnosed after a physical exam and laboratory testing. The typical diagnostic procedure involves taking a blood sample to test for specific markers of the bacteria.
Treatment for serogroup B meningococcal disease usually involves antibiotics, although there are other treatment options available depending on the severity of the infection. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove dead tissue and prevent further spread of the infection.
Prevention of Serogroup B Meningococcal Disease
The best way to prevent serogroup B meningococcal disease is to receive the recommended meningococcal vaccination. Vaccines that protect against serogroup B meningococcal disease are available for children 11 to 18-year-old and those 2 months of age or older. People who have close contact with someone who has Serogroup B meningococcal disease may also receive antibiotics to prevent the disease.
