WHAT
IS MENINGITIS?
Meningitis is an inflammation
of the protective lining or membranes that cover the brain and spinal
cord.
WHAT CAUSES MENINGITIS?
This inflammation may be caused either by bacteria or viruses or occasionally,
parasites. Meningitis caused by bacteria is usually among the most
serious types.
WHAT CAUSES BACTERIAL MENINGITIS?
The most common causes of bacterial meningitis are Neisseria meningitidis
[the meningococcus], Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae
serotype b.
HOW IS BACTERIAL MENINGITIS SPREAD?
The bacteria are carried in the upper back part of the throat [nasopharynx]
of an infected person and are spread either through the air via droplets
[when a person coughs or sneezes the organisms or "germs" into the
air] or by direct contact with oral secretions from the nasopharynx
[for example, through kissing and some medical procedures such as
mouth to mouth resuscitation] of the infected person. However,
it should be noted that transmission usually occurs only after such
very close contact with the infected person. |
WHAT
ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BACTERIAL MENINGITIS?
The symptoms of bacterial
meningitis include sudden onset of fever, headache, neck pain or stiffness,
vomiting [often without abdominal pain] and irritability or restlessness.
Symptoms may quickly progress to decreased consciousness [the person
becomes less alert], convulsions or seizures and death.
HOW IS BACTERIAL MENINGITIS
DIAGNOSED?
Laboratory diagnosis of
bacterial meningitis is usually made by growing the bacteria from
body fluids, such as the blood or spinal fluid. Identification of
the type of bacteria responsible for the illness is important for
treatment.
HOW IS
BACTERIAL MENINGITIS TREATED?
Bacterial meningitis can
be treated with a number of effective antibiotics. It is important,
however, that treatment be started early in the course of the disease.
Appropriate antibiotic treatment of most of the common types of bacterial
meningitis should reduce the risk of dying from meningitis to below
15%, although the risk is higher among the elderly. It is very important
to remember, however, that early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Medical attention should be immediately sought once symptoms occur.
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