Chicago public health officials warn of rising cases of meningococcal disease.
Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious bacterial infection that affects the lining of the brain, spinal cord and bloodstream and can be fatal. Meningitis is one form of the disease.
The Chicago Department of Public Health has identified eight cases of meningococcal disease so far in 2024, and seven in 2023, compared to one to three cases per year for the years 2017 to 2022.
In a health alert posted online, CDPH said the 15 cases in Chicago from 2023 to 2024 include nine who are between the ages of 30 and 60 and eight who are Black and non-Hispanic.
The alert comes less than two months after the CDC warned of a nationwide increase in cases.
“We are monitoring this situation closely and have not yet identified any shared exposure among the Chicago cases,” said CDPH Commissioner Olosimbo “Simbo” Ige, MD, MPH. “Although cases are still very rare, we want people to be aware because the outcomes can be very severe. As with other diseases such as COVID-19 and measles, keeping up with the recommended vaccinations is the best protection against cryptococcal disease.” Meningismus.
There is a vaccine required in Illinois. The first dose is given at age 11-12 years, with a booster dose given at age 16 years. CPDH urges parents and caregivers to ensure the vaccine is given on schedule.
CPDH also encourages everyone to be aware of the symptoms, which vary depending on the type of infection. According to CDPH symptoms include:
While the symptoms of meningococcal disease can be similar to the flu at first, they quickly worsen, and the illness can become life-threatening within hours. Symptoms of meningitis may include fever, headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light), or altered mental status. Symptoms of a meningococcal bloodstream infection may include fever and chills, fatigue, vomiting, cold hands and feet, severe aches and pains, rapid breathing, diarrhea, or, in later stages, a dark purple skin rash.
