Those in the same household or daycare center, or anyone with direct contact with a patient's oral secretions, would be considered at increased risk of acquiring the infection. The bacteria are not spread by casual contact. Symptoms include sudden onset of high fever, intense headache, stiff neck and nausea, often accompanied by vomiting. Upper respiratory infections flourish in the winter months due to increased indoor close contact. People can significantly reduce their risk of infection, including the potentially deadly meningococcal disease, by following a few common-sense precautions.
Teenagers are particularly guilty of sharing soft drinks, straws and other beverage containers.
Athletes are also tempted to share water bottles or water ladles when working out. All sports participants should have their own bottles or cups for water. Don't share cigarettes. Smoking irritates the lungs and throat making them more vulnerable to infection. Smokers who share the same cigarette may infect each other with a communicable disease.