CDC Warns Of Increase In Bacterial Illnesses That Can Lead To Meningitis

The New York Times (3/29, Caryn Rabin) reported, “Federal officials are warning health care providers to be on the lookout for invasive meningococcal disease, a rare but potentially deadly illness that has increased in prevalence in recent years and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent long-term disability or death. The illness is caused by infection with a bacterium called Neisseria meningitidis.” In 2023, “422 cases of invasive meningococcal disease were reported in the United States, the highest number since 2014, according to the” CDC. However, as of April 25, “143 cases have been reported to the C.D.C. so far this year, 62 more than the number of cases reported last year during the same period.”