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Meningococcal Contact Prophylaxis — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasyInfection Prevention & ControlMeningococcal Contact ProphylaxisSCE Infectious Diseases

A 28-year-old man develops meningococcal meningitis (serogroup B). His close contacts (household members and a kissing contact) require chemoprophylaxis. What is the recommended prophylaxis regimen?

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Correct answer: A — Oral Ciprofloxacin 500 mg single dose for adults (or Rifampicin 600 mg BD for 2 days as an alternative)

UKHSA recommends chemoprophylaxis for close contacts of invasive meningococcal disease: household contacts, kissing contacts, and healthcare workers who performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation without PPE. Single-dose oral Ciprofloxacin 500 mg (for adults) is the preferred regimen due to single-dose convenience and >90% nasopharyngeal eradication. Rifampicin 600 mg BD for 2 days is an alternative (but interacts with hormonal contraception, ART, Warfarin). Prophylaxis should be given within 24 hours. MenB vaccination may also be offered to close contacts depending on serogroup.

Reference: UKHSA 2024 – Meningococcal guidelines; Green Book Ch 22