Neurology
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With meningococcal meningitis cases rising in winter, Infection Prevention and Control Officer at Mediclinic Southern Africa, explains the key symptoms to watch for and practical tips to keep your family healthy and safe.
Bacterial meningitis is caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal column. This organism can also cause meningococcal septicaemia when the bacteria enters into the bloodstream. Collectively, both types are referred to as meningococcal disease.
Smedley explains that meningococcal meningitis is generally seen in winter months in South Africa and can rapidly progress to severe illness and potentially even death without proper treatment.
How it differs from other forms of meningitis
Viral meningitis is another type of meningitis that occurs in warmer months, and although unpleasant, generally resolves over time like other viral illnesses and rarely results in poor outcomes.
Fungal meningitis can occur in individuals with weakened immune systems (such as those living with HIV/Aids, cancer patients and very young babies) which makes them more susceptible to this type of infection.
Symptoms to look out for
“Early symptoms of meningococcal meningitis often resemble the flu but can escalate quickly. Warning signs to look out for include a sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint pain, and a distinctive purplish rash that doesn’t fade when pressed. In more advanced stages, symptoms may include cold hands and feet, seizures, or extreme drowsiness,” explains Smedley.
How it spreads
Meningococcal meningitis can spread through close contact, particularly via droplets from coughing, sneezing, or kissing. People living in shared spaces like student residences, hostels, or the same household are at higher risk.
Towards a solution
Prevention starts with awareness. South Africa’s public immunisation programme includes vaccines against some of the most common bacterial causes of meningitis. Additional vaccines for meningococcal meningitis are available privately and are recommended for high-risk groups such as students in communal living spaces, military personnel, and individuals without a spleen.
Smedley highlights that practising good hygiene — like regular handwashing, not sharing drinks or utensils, and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing — can also help reduce the spread. If someone is diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, close contacts should receive antibiotics to prevent further transmission. Meningococcal meningitis is a Notifiable Medical Condition (NMC) in South Africa, meaning all confirmed cases must be reported to health authorities. This helps with contact tracing and monitoring for potential outbreaks.
Anyone who suspects they’ve been exposed or begins to show symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Schools, workplaces, and other group settings are encouraged to promote vaccination, improve ventilation, and support public health efforts in the event of a confirmed case.
Should you or a family member require urgent help, please visit a Mediclinic Emergency Centre or contact a Mediclinic doctor today for clinical advice.