When invasive infection occurs, the symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, vomiting, neck stiffness, and rash. Meningitis is a very serious illness. The symptoms usually start 5 days after infection with the bacteria, but the onset can range from 2 to 10 days. A person with meningococcal infection may be contagious for the entire duration of symptoms. In most circumstances, the person will become noninfectious after one day of antibiotic treatment.
Antibiotic therapy is required.
Individuals experiencing symptoms of meningitis should be promptly evaluated by a doctor. However, the vaccine is not recommended for routine use. The vaccine is given to travelers expecting to have prolonged contact with the local population in countries experiencing epidemic meningococcal disease. The student may return as soon as he or she recovers following treatement. All suspected cases should be evaluated promptly for early diagnosis and treatment.