Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection that attacks the brain and spinal cord membranes. There are 5 common forms of the bacteria that cause meningococcal meningitis in the US: groups A, C, W, Y, and B. Two different vaccines are necessary to help protect against the 5 most common forms. Neisseria meningitidis, the bacteria that causes meningitis B (MenB), is transmitted via respiratory secretions. Nasopharyngeal carriage rates of N. meningitidis are highest in adolescents and young adults. Common routes of transmission involve sneezing, coughing, or sharing behaviors. MenB kills up to 15% of victims, usually within 24 hours.