Rare bacteria that invades the nervous system and can turn fatal ‘within hours’ is on the rise in US, CDC warns
THE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued a health warning about a rare bacterial infection that can become fatal within hours.
The invasive meningococcal disease occurs when a microbe called Neisseria meningitidis infects the body and attacks the brain, spinal cord, and bloodstream.
Meningitis is a viral bacteria that can trigger symptoms such as headache, fever, and a stiff nose, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The viral disease can carry the bacteria through a person's nose and throat without getting sick.
However, specific individuals with weaker immune systems, like infants and people with HIV, are more vulnerable to infection.
As of March 25, 2024, the CDC has reported at least 143 cases, an increase of 62 cases over the 81 reported on the same date in 2023.
Last year, a total of 422 cases were reported, the highest number of reports since 2014.
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