What is meningitis ?

 

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges which is the  thin layer covering the brain and spinal cord. This disease may  be caused by a bacteria, virus or fungus. Viral meningitis is the most common and bacteria meningitis is the most dangerous. If not treated well, meningitis can lead to brain swelling, coma or even death.

 

What causes meningitis ?

 

Meningitis is usually caused by a virus. Occasionally , it may be caused by a bacteria but this can be life-threatening. Rarely , it may be caused by a fungus.

 

What are the symptoms ?

 

Symptoms for meningitis may vary . In some people, symptoms appear within 24 hours while others may have symptoms coming on slowly. Common symptoms include :

 
• headache
• fever and chills
• confusion
• nausea and vomiting
• joint pain and swelling
• sensitivity to light
• skin rash as in viral meningitis
• sleeplessness

 
In babies you may notice constant crying, irritable, poor feeding, a bulge in the baby’s fontanel, inactiveness and seizures.

 

How do I know I am at risk ?

 

You are at risk of meningitis is you :

 
•  have not completed your  childhood immunizations
• have  a compromised immune system
• work with domestic animals
• are pregnant
• live in a community setting such as dormitories
• younger than 5 or older than 50
•  on immuno suppressant drugs

 

How dangerous is meningitis ?

 

People with meningitis may experience the following complications :

 
• brain damage
• paralysis
• loss of speech
• hydrocephalus
• seizures
• blindness
• memory loss
• shock
• death

 

Is there any hope for people with meningitis ?

 

Viral meningitis are usually  mild and resolve on its own in a couple of weeks.

 

Bacterial meningitis is however life-threatening. You may be given a combination of antibiotics through IV ( usually broad spectrum antibitocs ).  You may need hospitalization depending on the severity of your case. Infected skulls and membranes surrounding the brain  filled with fluid may also be drained surgically.

 

How can I protect myself or my child from meningitis ?

 

Haemophilus vaccine (HiB vaccine) in children will help prevent bacteria meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae.  This is usually recommended   after 2 months of age.
 
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) is recommended for children 2 years and younger
 
Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) is given to children ages 11 to 12 entering high school or to children ages 11 to 18 who haven’t yet been vaccinated.
 
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) may be given to older children and adults against pneumococcal bacteria.

 

You maya also take these precautions to protect yourself.

 

Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.

 

Wash your hands thoroughly especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing food or eating.

 

Clean surfaces that are prone to contamination such as remote controls, doorknobs, and toys.

 

Pregnant women should not eat contaminated food.

 

Avoid sharing  personal items such as beverages, eating utensils,  and  toothbrushes.

 
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