What is the best statement regarding meningococcal infection?

Prophylaxis is indicated in close contacts of patients with meningococcal infection because the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease can spread through respiratory droplets during close or prolonged contact. This means that individuals who are in close proximity to someone infected with meningococcal disease, such as family members or those sharing living spaces, are at an increased risk of contracting the infection themselves. Administering chemoprophylaxis helps to prevent the disease from developing in these high-risk individuals, thereby reducing the potential for outbreaks.

In contrast, the other options do not align with established public health guidelines. For instance, chemoprophylaxis is typically recommended promptly after exposure, rather than waiting two weeks, as earlier intervention is crucial for preventing infection. Additionally, while droplet precautions are essential in managing meningococcal meningitis cases to prevent further transmission, nasopharyngeal cultures may not always be necessary for determining who requires prophylaxis, as clinical guidelines often emphasize the context of exposure rather than relying solely on culture results.