• Meningitis and meningococcal sepsis are notifiable diseases in the UK:
    • All cases of meningitis (regardless of aetiology) should be notified to the relevant public health authority
    • Forms a legal obligation to ensure the relevant authority is aware
  • Prophylaxis of contacts should initiated by the Consultant in health protection to eradicate nasopharyngeal carriage in those with a certain level of contact to the patient
Pathogen
Individuals Requiring Prophylaxis
Prophylactic Options
N. meningitidis
  • Extended period of contact (>8 hours) in close proximity (within 3 feet)
  • Contact with oral secretions, with such as activities as kissing, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, intubation
  • Household contacts, including communal living (military recruits, college dormitory residents)
Ciprofloxacin 500mg PO
OR
Rifampin10mg/kg PO every 12 hours for 2 days
OR
Ceftriaxone 250mg IM