Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges that cover the brain and spinal cord. There are two common types of meningitis; bacterial and viral. According to the National Meningitis Association children and adolescents are considered higher risk and account for 15 percent of all meningitis cases in the United States.
Symptoms
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention a sudden onset of fever, stiff neck and headache are the classic symptoms of the start of meningitis. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and altered mental status often follow. Bacterial meningitis presents within 3 to 7 days after exposure. Viral meningitis is less severe and has the same symptoms as bacterial meningitis. Infants that are difficult to wake or not feeding as usual may be displaying signs of meningitis.
Transmission
Bacterial meningitis is spread through the exchange of respiratory secretions such as coughing and kissing. Bacterial meningitis can also be spread to another person by having constant contact with the ill child; such as a parent. The CDC reports that viral meningitis can be spread through fecal contamination when changing a diaper or using the bathroom and not performing hand hygiene. Viral meningitis can also be spread via nasal secretions, sputum or nasal mucus.
Treatment
According to Kid's Health, children with bacterial meningitis are hospitalized and receive IV antibiotics, fluids and corticosteroids to help reduce the inflammation of the meninges. Complications with bacterial meningitis can include hearing loss, seizures, visual impairment and developmental delays. Children who receive treatment quickly often times makes a full recovery with no complications. Children who have viral meningitis are sometimes hospitalized while most are able to recover at home. Treatment for viral meningitis includes fluids, rest and over the counter pain relief medications.
Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic, bacterial meningitis can occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream and travels to the brain and spinal cord. A skull fracture, ear infection or sinus infection can cause bacterial to directly infect the meninges. Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis and is caused by a common virus called enteroviruses. According to the Mayo Clinic, enteroviruses are responsible for 90 percent of the meningitis cases in the United States.
Prevention
According to Kid's Health, doctors recommend that children over the age of eleven get vaccinated against meningococcal disease which can develop into meningitis. Meningitis can be prevented by washing hands with soap and water, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, coughing and sneezing. Avoiding people who are ill and not sharing food, drinks or utensils are also ways to prevent from becoming ill with meningitis. The Mayo Clinic suggests keeping your body healthy through eating a balanced diet; getting exercise and getting plenty of rest are ways to keep your immune system healthy and preventing diseases such as meningitis.
