The sudden onset of a stiff neck, headache and high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion and vomiting. About 2\3 of people with meningococcal meningitis also develop a bruise-like rash on their bodies

By being around other people that carry the disease. When people sneeze, cough, kiss or share eating and drinking utensils, they can spread meningitis bacteria in droplets of saliva or secretions from their nose or throat. Most people that spread meningitis bacteria are not sick

Meningococcal meningitis is found worldwide. Types A, B, C, Y and W135 are responsible for most epidemics. Type A epidemics occur every year in Africa, usually in the African meningitis belt during the December-June dry season but the risk is year round. Saudi Arabia is among a group of countries to have also reported recent epidemics

There are several vaccines available for meningococcal meningitis in Canada, covering the C strain, ACYW strains and the B strain. The ACYW vaccine is commonly used for travellers to some parts of Africa and Saudi Arabia where these strains are more common

Possibly. A booster may be recommended after several years depending on your age, health, vaccination status and continued risk level for contracting meningitis

Avoid crowded areas like public markets. Avoid close physical contact with locals who may not be vaccinated. Avoid sharing cups, water bottles, cigarettes, food and utensils. Wash or sanitize your hands if you come into contact with an object that could be contaminated with nasal secretions

Hospitalization and antibiotics. Of those who recover, up to 15% will be left with serious after effects including hearing loss, brain damage, seizures, gangrene, amputations and kidney damage or failure. Bacterial meningitis can also cause a serious blood infection called septicemia