A 19-Year-Old College Student Is Brought to the Emergency Department

A 19-year-old college student is brought to the emergency department via ambulance after his roommate found him barely rousable in bed this morning.  The patient had developed a fever, headache, and nausea the evening before.  On examination, he is stuporous and not responding to questions.  The patient is diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis.  The roommate received the meningococcal booster vaccine several months ago and has no active symptoms or additional sick contacts.  Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment recommendation for the patient's roommate?

A) Administer a dose of intravenous immunoglobulin
B) Give a dose of ceftriaxone immediately
C) No prophylaxis required because of recent vaccination
D) Prescribe ciprofloxacin if pharyngeal culture positive
E) Start rifampin only if symptoms develop

Correct Answer:

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