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Meningitis
Meningitis
Meningitis
What is Meningitis?
Infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain Viral or Bacterial Etiology is important because of the seriousness of the illness and the treatment needed
Viral Meningitis
Usually clears up in a week or two with no specific treatment Common; rarely serious infection of fluid in the spinal cord or fluid that surrounds the brain Also called aseptic meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis
A serious infection of the fluid of the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain Results from bacterial invasion of membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord (meninges) Meninges become swollen and inflamed, leading to classic s/s of meningitis
Meningococcal Meningitis
Pneumococcal Meningitis
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Causes
Under Age 2 Fever Headache Stiff neck Inactivity Vomiting Poor feeding Seizures
May be hard to detect in infants
Over age 2 High fever Headache Stiff neck Nausea and vomiting Sensitivity to light Confusion Sleepiness Petechiae that spreads rapidly seizures
Potential Complications
Advanced bacterial meningitis can lead to brain damage, coma, and death Survivors can suffer long-term hearing loss, mental retardation, paralysis, and seizures
Vaccinations
Hib vaccine (3 doses by 6 months of age and a booster between 12-18 months of age) Meningococcal vaccine not routinely given to civilians in U.S. because most outbreaks occur in Africa
Travel Precautions
Check with your local health department if you are planning to travel outside the country. If meningococcal vaccination is recommended or required, it should be received at least one week before departure if possible.
Source
American College Health Association, Baltimore, MD (2007) www.acha.org/meningitis Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2007). www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/m eningococcal_g.htm.