Meningococci are a type of bacteria that cause serious infections. The most common infection is meningitis, which is an inflammation of the thin tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Meningococci can also cause other problems, including a serious bloodstream infection called sepsis. In its early stages, you may have flu-like symptoms and a stiff neck. But the disease can progress quickly and can be fatal. Early treatment with antibiotics improves the outcome. A vaccine can prevent meningococcal infections.
Click here for more information: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/meningococcalinfections.html