Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the spinal cord and brain, and can be life threatening. Recognizing symptoms of the infection that can affect brain function is important for parents. Children with fever, stiff necks, irritability and vomiting could be experiencing symptoms of meningitis that can appear suddenly. Understanding the cause, symptoms and need for medical treatment can prevent long-term complications.
Types
Meningitis is caused by either a bacteria or virus. Bacterial meningitis is more severe than its viral form. Treatment of the fever and providing adequate hydration and rest are recommended by physicians, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Bacterial meningitis is more serious and can have long-term complications if prompt treatment is not administered.
Types of bacteria that cause meningitis vary. The CDC reports that the leading causes of bacterial meningitis today are from Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitides. Prior to the 1990s most meningitis was caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Hib meningitis is no longer prevalent because of a vaccine that has become part of routine childhood immunization. The herpes virus and West Nile can also cause meningitis. Other causes reported by the National Institutes of Health include tumors, fungi, allergy to drugs and chemical irritation.
Symptoms
The effects of inflammation of the membranes in the spinal cord and brain associated with meningitis cause fever, stiff neck, irritability, headache, vomiting and lethargy that progress to seizures. Infants may refuse to eat, cry excessively, vomit and have a rash. A shrill cry and bulging in the fontanel or soft spot at the top of the head are telltale signs associated with the infection. Meningitis symptoms in children can mimic influenza, producing cough and body aches. Sensitivity to light is also a hallmark sign. The presence of a purple skin rash, combined with other symptoms of meningitis is a serious sign that warrants immediate medical attention.
Identification
It is important to identify the type of bacteria to ensure the correct antimicrobial agent is prescribed. Many types of bacteria cause meningitis in children. A blood test to measure white blood cell count, combined with a bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity test obtained from a spinal tap---also known as a lumbar puncture---is used to diagnose bacterial meningitis. During a spinal tap a needle is inserted into the spine and cerebrospinal fluid is withdrawn. The fluid sample is analyzed for white blood cells, which become elevated in response to infection. A physician can also tell if infection is present if the fluid that surrounds the spine is cloudy. Meningitis might also be suspected, combined with other clinical symptoms, if the fluid pressure measured during the test is elevated.
Features
Meningococcal disease is contagious. Information from the University of Georgia Medical Center warns that sharing drinking and eating utensils, inhaling respiratory secretions from coughing and sneezing and kissing can spread meningitis; it is not spread by being in the same room with an infected individual. Only 1 in 1,000 people develop meningitis from coming in contact with meningitis causing viruses. After exposure to viruses that cause meningitis, sufferers will develop symptoms in 3 to 7 days that last 7 to 10 days. Most people exposed to viral forms of the disease with health immunity will experience fever, rash and cold symptoms. Without treatment, bacterial meningitis progresses to septicemia. The onset of symptoms after exposure to bacterial meningitis varies, and can develop within several hours or up to five days.
Prevention/Treatment
Children should be vaccinated against Haemophilus meningitis or HiB. A conjugate vaccine can protect children against pneumococcal forms of the disease and is also a part of routine childhood immunization. Household members exposed to meningitis should receive preventive antibiotics per recommendations from the National Institutes of Health. Frequent hand washing, cleaning contaminated surfaces in the home such as doorknobs and countertops, protecting against mosquito bites and avoidance of sharing personal items can help prevent the spread of disease. Parents whose children are diagnosed with meningitis should take special precautions with diaper disposal and hand washing and disinfection of surfaces using soap and water then a dilute of bleach and water. It is important to note that meningitis can result in brain damage, deafness, seizures and death and is a serious illness that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
