Post-exposure prophylaxis for Neisseria meningitidis is achieved with which antibiotics?

• A. Ciprofloxacin or Rifampin.
• B. Azithromycin.
• C. Penicillin G.
• D. Chloramphenicol.

Answer: (A)

Post-exposure prophylaxis for Neisseria meningitidis aims to eradicate nasopharyngeal carriage in exposed individuals to prevent secondary cases. The agents chosen are those that quickly clear carriage and are practical for close contacts. Rifampin and ciprofloxacin fit this role: rifampin is highly effective at eliminating carriage in the nasopharynx and is used in a short, practical course; ciprofloxacin offers another effective, convenient option, typically given as a short course or single dose in adults. Other drugs like azithromycin don’t provide reliable meningococcal prophylaxis, penicillin G isn’t used for this purpose due to resistance concerns, and chloramphenicol is not preferred because of toxicity and lack of routine use for prophylaxis. So, rifampin or ciprofloxacin are the best choices for post-exposure prophylaxis.