The CDC warns of an increase in meningococcal disease, a rare bacterial infection that can cause deadly meningitis

Health officials are warning doctors about rare, dangerous meningococcal infections that are rising in the US.

New health alert from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that these illnesses caused by a type of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria may have unusual symptoms. This year, 1 in 6 meningococcal cases have died, a greater death rate than usual.

Middle-aged individuals are also affected, making these situations rare. Meningitis usually affects children and young adults.

The CDC's warning follows the Virginia Department of Health's September warning about five deaths from a rare, deadly meningococcal disease.

Neisseria meningitidis causes meningococcal illness. The infection can cause meningitis and septicemia, or blood poisoning.

By kissing, coughing, sneezing, or living with infected people, respiratory and throat secretions can spread the bacteria.

Meningitis symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, light aversion, and nausea. Many recent cases lack these signs. Two-thirds of patients have bloodstream infections, 4% have aching joints.

Meningococcal bloodstream infections cause fever, chills, lethargy, vomiting, chilly hands and feet, fast breathing, diarrhea, and a dark purple rash.

The CDC stated initial symptoms can resemble many diseases, but they worsen quickly and can be life-threatening within hours.  Treatment with antibiotics must begin immediately.  Survival may result in deafness or arm and leg amputations.

Bacterial meningitis vaccines exist.  Children 11–12 should get it, and a booster is given at 16 because protection wanes.  HIV patients and others with immune-compromising disorders should take it.  The CDC recommends boosters every 3–5 years for vulnerable groups.