In a patient with fever and petechial rash suggestive of meningococcemia, responders should wear which PPE on arrival?

• A. Don a mask and gloves.
• B. Wear only gloves.
• C. Wear an N-95 respirator.
• D. No PPE needed.

Answer: (A)

Droplet precautions are the key. Meningococcemia is spread mainly through respiratory droplets, so protecting the eyes, nose, and mouth from those droplets is essential as soon as you arrive. A mask provides a barrier against inhaling droplets, and gloves protect your hands from contact with the patient’s blood or body fluids. An N-95 is not required here because the transmission is not airborne. Wearing no PPE would leave you vulnerable to exposure. If there’s a chance of splashes or you’ll perform procedures, eye protection and a gown can be added, but starting with a mask and gloves covers the immediate risk.