Healthcare-associated Exposure to Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis)

N. meningitidis is transmitted from person-to-person by direct contact with respiratory secretions and saliva and by inhalation of airborne droplets generated by coughing or sneezing. There are 3 different types of vaccines available in the United States that are recommended based on age and level of risk. At risk HCP (e.g., asplenia or persistent complement component deficiencies) should be vaccinated and receive a booster vaccination during increased exposure risk or outbreaks due to their increase the risk for meningococcal disease.²⁰All HCP with close or lengthy contact with a patient with meningococcal disease, or have a mucous membrane exposure to contaminated secretions, are considered at increased risk of infection and should receive antimicrobial PEP within 24 hours of exposure. Rifampin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone are 90%-95% effective and considered acceptable chemoprophylaxis options for PEP. Potentially infectious HCP should be excluded from work until 24 hours after the start of PEP medication.²⁰