Chicago is facing a surge in cases of meningococcal disease, with eight reported cases so far this year. Health officials across the country are urging caution and emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a health advisory in response to this increase in cases.
In Chicago, there have been eight reported cases of invasive meningococcal disease in 2023. This rare but serious bacterial infection can cause brain lining, spinal cord, and bloodstream infections. Unfortunately, all eight reported cases in Chicago had bloodstream infections, with four resulting in death. While the disease remains rare, its severe outcomes warrant awareness.
The Chicago Department of Public Health commissioner Olusimbo Ige emphasized the importance of monitoring the situation closely as there is currently no common exposure identified among the Chicago cases. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease, much like with other illnesses such as COVID-19 and measles. In fact, children aged 11 to 12 are advised to receive their first dose of the required meningococcal vaccine, with a second shot administered at age 16.
Last year, there were seven reported cases of meningococcal disease in Chicago. However, between 2017 and 2022, only one to three cases were reported each year. Health officials note that while meningococcal disease can be transmitted through the air or saliva, it is not as contagious as measles, the flu or COVID-19. Symptoms are similar to the flu but can worsen rapidly including fever and chills, fatigue
