Symptoms of a Meningococcal Infection

A meningococcal infection is a bacterial form of meningitis that has spread into a person's blood stream. Often more contagious than other forms of meningitis, it is usually caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacterium. When you suffer from this form of meningitis, you typically develop a number of the "hallmark" symptoms of the infection.

Fever

• Most people suffering from this form of meningococcal infection experience the symptom of a relatively high fever, running anywhere between 103 degrees Fahrenheit and above.

Stiffness

• Often accompanying this fever is a certain amount of stiffness isolated within the neck. This stiffness may also bring on periodic episodes of fairly severe headaches.

Digestive Issues

• It is also quite common for someone suffering from a meningococcal infection to experience digestive issues, starting off as nausea and then developing into vomiting. Others can begin to lose their appetite or interest in drinking fluids.

Cognitive Disruptions

• Sometimes, a person with a meningococcal infection will suffer from disruptions in his cognitive ability, becoming confused or unable to concentrate. It may also manifest as seeming overly tired or an inability to wake up on your own accord.

Rash

• It is also common, especially with a meningococcal infection, for a person to develop a rash or an inflammation along patches of the skin.