Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection with Neisseria meningitidis . Blood infections caused by this bacteria without meningitis are called meningococcemia. Most cases occur during the winter and spring.
Meningococcal disease is relatively rare.
Anyone can get meningococcal disease. However, it is more common in infants, children, and young adults. It is more often found in places where there are crowded living conditions. Meningococcal disease spreads by contact with mucus or droplets from the nose and throat of an infected person. Many people carry the bacteria in their nose and throat without signs of illness, however, they may spread the disease to others.