Conclusion

N.meningitidis has been the cause of many epidemics of varying intensity and duration. Epidemics are influenced by varying serogroups which are dominant in different areas of the world and age groups. For example, serogroup A, which has been the cause of many epidemics and pandemics and is still rampant in Africa.

The pathogenicity of N.meningitidis is associated with the infection process. Virulence factors of N.meningitidis include polysaccharide capsules and/or LPS, which protect bacterial surfaces from the host phagocytosis, and pili, which facilitate adhesion to host tissues and IgA protease. Meningitis is spread through the bloodstream and can cross the blood-brain barrier, enhancing its pathogenicity.

Clinical aspects of meningitis are non-specific and challenging to identify. Factors depend on age and can lead to different diseases, such as Meningococcaemia, Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, paralysis, hemiparesis, and hearing loss. Different rashes are possible, followed by leakage of blood through vessels and causing damage.

Antibiotic therapy should be started before the diagnosis of the disease, or laboratory results of the infectious agent, to reduce mortality. Penicillin is used in meningitis; however, alternatives should be used in patients with allergies. Treatment with corticosteroids is also advised to decrease inflammation in the brain.

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