Bacterial meningitis is a rare but serious and potentially fatal disease.
The infection causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease strikes about 2,600 Americans each year, leading to death in approximately thirteen percent of cases which translates to more than 300 deaths annually. Outbreaks tend to occur in relatively isolated, confined environments, such as small communities and institutional settings. Outbreaks tend to peak in late winter and early spring, but can occur at anytime when school is in session. The incidence of meningococcal meningitis outbreaks on college campuses has increased in recent years.