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Early treatment is essential

	Caused by a bacterial infection, meningococcal disease can lead to life-threatening symptoms in a matter of hours. ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you identify preventative vaccines or treatments that work well for meningococcal disease.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out which medications rate best for treating meningococcal disease.

Consumer Reports Health explains the best and most up-to-date expert research and evidence about treating meningitis and septicemia. Our clear and sound advice helps you and your doctor choose your best treatment options.

Key points for people with meningitis and septicemia

• Meningitis and septicemia are serious conditions usually caused by infection with a bacteria called meningococcus.
• You get meningitis when the fluid in your spinal cord and around your brain becomes infected.
• If these germs get into your blood, it can cause blood poisoning or septicemia.
• Both conditions can lead to life-threatening symptoms in a matter of hours.
• If doctors think you might have meningitis or septicemia, you'll get antibiotics as soon as possible.

You can get meningitis or septicemia separately, or you can get both at the same time. People with meningococcal meningitis often get a particular kind of rash, a high fever, and a head ache amongst other symptoms. Meningococcal septicemia will also cause a rash and high fever as well as cold hands and feet, and painful joints. Babies under 12 months are most likely to be affected by meningococcal disease, followed by teenagers between 15 and 18. College freshmen who live in dormitories are also at greater risk.

Our concise condition report and Treatment Ratings table will help you and your doctor decide which treatments for meningitis and septicemia are right for you or your child. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, we'll also help you sort through the best research and the most effective treatments for over 100 conditions and illnesses that may affect you and your family.