The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a concerning uptick in meningococcal disease cases in the United States—an increase of more than 100% from 2021 to 2023. While meningococcal disease is rare, its potential severity and speed of progression make it critical for long-term care and assisted living professionals to stay informed and prepared.

Key Findings from the CDC:

• Total U.S. cases jumped from 224 in 2021 to 422 in 2023, with a 14% rise occurring between 2022 and 2023.
• Nearly half of 2023’s cases (44%) were caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y.
• Many of these serogroup Y cases showed a rare strain type—CC174 sequence type ST-1466—linked to unusually high fatality rates (18%).
• Alarmingly, 66% of serogroup Y cases in 2023 occurred in people aged 30 and older, including those with underlying medical conditions or in vulnerable congregate settings.

Implications for Senior Care Communities

Residents in long-term care and assisted living are already at higher risk for infection due to age, comorbidities, and close living quarters. This rise in cases—particularly among older adults—demands vigilance from community managers, nurses, and infection prevention teams.

Meningococcal disease can present as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord) or meningococcemia (a bloodstream infection). Symptoms can progress rapidly and may include:

• Sudden fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion
• Sensitivity to light
• Cold hands and feet, limb pain, or a dark purple rash

Prompt recognition and treatment are essential—the disease can be fatal within hours without timely intervention.

Proactive Steps for Care Communities

1. Reinforce awareness of symptoms among nursing staff and caregivers, especially in residents with non-specific signs of infection.
2. Review vaccination protocols, especially for staff and residents who may be at higher risk or living in close quarters.
3. Ensure timely reporting and testing when symptoms arise to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.
4. Collaborate with pharmacy partners like Forum to stay current on vaccine availability, outbreak alerts, and response planning.

The Bottom Line

While meningococcal disease remains rare, the increase in cases—and the shift toward older populations—highlights the need for prevention, early detection, and swift action. Forum Extended Care Services is here to support your clinical team with the tools and expertise needed to navigate emerging infectious threats in senior care settings.

Download the free tip sheet: Recognizing Meningococcal Disease: What Senior Care Teams Need to Know.