Meningitis caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis is sometimes referred to as meningococcal disease.

Some people have Neisseria meningitidis in their nose or throat without getting sick. But they can pass it to another person, who may get sick.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children, starting at age 11 or 12, get 2 doses of meningococcal vaccine. But children who are at high risk for severe problems from meningitis may also need a series of vaccines and boosters before age 11 or 12. The vaccine protects against certain strains of Neisseria meningitidis.

People who have close contact with someone with a Neisseria meningitidis infection may need to take a course of antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading.

Neisseria meningitidis also can cause outbreaks of meningitis. Small outbreaks usually happen every year.

If you are planning foreign travel, particularly to sub-Saharan Africa, talk with a doctor about getting the Neisseria meningitidis vaccine.