CDC warns doctors to watch for a rare bacterial infection that kills one in SIX people and is associated with unusual symptoms

Health officials have warned doctors to be alert to a rare bacterial infection that kills one in six patients.

The CDC issued a warning to doctors Thursday about increased cases of a type of meningitis-causing strain that is rapidly increasing in the US.

The agency found that 143 infections have already been caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis subgroup Y ST-1466 – 80 percent more than this time last year.

This form differs in many ways from the more common forms: it is more fatal, causes different symptoms and affects patients who are much older than normal.

Last year, 422 Neisseria meningitidis illnesses were reported in the US, the most since 2014. And 143 cases have been identified in 2024 alone – 80 percent more than this time last year

The increasing load leads to blood infections and stiff or painful joints. Typical symptoms of meningitis infections usually include fever, headache and stiff neck.

The new cases are also unusual because they affect middle-aged adults; Typically the infections affect infants, adolescents and young adults.

The CDC is concerned that cases are being overlooked because they do not fit the typical patient.

The agency warned that symptoms can escalate within hours and that prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential.

Normally meningitis infections kill about 10 percent of patients, but the rising strain has killed about one in six.

Neisseria meningitidis can be transmitted from person to person through saliva and respiratory secretions, such as by kissing, coughing, sneezing, or by living in close contact with others who are infected.

Last year, 422 Neisseria meningitidis illnesses were reported in the US, the highest number since 2014.

There are four subgroups of meningococcal bacteria circulating in the US: B, C, W and Y. The CDC said ST-1466 is in subgroup Y.

About 65 percent of cases occurred in adults aged 30 to 60, the majority of whom were black (63 percent).

Another 15 percent were patients with HIV, which has been shown to increase the risk of meningococcal disease.

The CDC said at least 17 patients have died.

Meningococcal disease typically manifests as meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis is responsible for approximately 150 to 300 deaths per year in the US.

However, the CDC urged doctors to watch for unusual symptoms, such as blood infections and joint pain.

There are also vaccines to protect against meningococcal disease, which are usually given to children aged 11 years.

The protection fades, so a booster is usually given at age 16.

Officials also urge people with compromised immune systems, such as HIV, to get a booster every three to five years.

The CDC’s alert comes after five people in Virginia died from this form of meningococcal disease in September.