meningococcus
/məˌnɪŋɡoʊˈkɑkəs/
noun
- A type of bacteria that can cause serious infections, especially meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord) and septicemia (blood poisoning).
- Outbreaks of meningococcus are more common in crowded living situations, such as college dormitories.
- The doctor explained that meningococcus is spread through close contact, like coughing or sharing drinks.
- Vaccines are available to protect against the most common strains of meningococcus.