Question

What is the mass chemoprophylaxis for meningococcal meningitis ?

• A. Rifampicin
• B. Chloramphenicol
• C. Tetracycline
• D. Penicillin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Meningococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Mass chemoprophylaxis is a preventive measure aimed at controlling outbreaks by administering a specific antibiotic to people in close contact with infected individuals, thereby reducing the risk of transmission.

The primary drug recommended for mass chemoprophylaxis of meningococcal meningitis is Rifampicin. Rifampicin is effective in eliminating Neisseria meningitidis from the nasopharynx, thus preventing the spread of the disease.

Rifampicin is preferred over other options due to its ability to be administered orally, good patient compliance, and efficacy in reducing nasopharyngeal carriage of the bacteria. Other options like Chloramphenicol, Tetracycline, and Penicillin are not used for chemoprophylaxis due to either lower efficacy or because they are primarily used for treatment rather than prevention.

In conclusion, the appropriate mass chemoprophylaxis for meningococcal meningitis is Rifampicin.