More than 91 per cent of the eligible population took the protective shots, which confer immunity for three to five years. Last December, public health authorities were kept busy explaining that meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection that attacks the lining of the brain and the spinal cord. The bacteria are relatively common, and the vast majority of people who come into contact with them don't get sick. It is not known why some people are more susceptible. It is contagious and more common in children than adults.
Antibiotics can stop the spread of infection if administered immediately.
Symptoms include fever, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, a stiff neck and sensitivity to light. The infection attacks suddenly and swiftly. In 10 per cent of cases, death can occur in as little as 24 hours. She died Dec. 4, just two days after experiencing flu-like symptoms. It is still a shock.