A39: Meningococcal infection

A39.3: Chronic meningococcaemia

You have been infected by certain bacteria called meningococci. These bacteria are typically transmitted person-to-person, for example by sneezing or shaking hands. The bacteria have given you blood poisoning.

Blood poisoning is the most severe outcome of a disorder that has been caused by pathogens. Blood poisoning is also known as sepsis. With this, pathogens or their toxins may spread throughout the body via the blood. If the body’s immune system does not react properly to this, organs and tissue can become damaged. The damage may be extremely severe. It may be impossible to get it under control.

Meningococci can remain in the blood for a considerable time and repeatedly cause fever and headaches. The joints may also ache. A skin rash is also possible.