A recent unprecedented outbreak of meningitis B has spread quickly in the county of Kent in the United Kingdom.
What is meningitis and how to treat it?
- Meningitis is an infection of the fluid and membranes that protect your brain and spinal cord. It can be serious and life-threatening, so it is important to get prompt treatment.
Symptoms
- High fever * Headache that doesn't go away * Stiff neck *Nausea or vomiting * Confusion or trouble concentrating *Seizures * Sleepiness or trouble waking * Sensitivity to light * No appetite or thirst * Skin rash (in some cases)
Causes
Meningitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi. The most common causes are:
- Bacterial meningitis: This can be caused by several types of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae.
- Viral meningitis: This is usually caused by enteroviruses, which are common in late summer and early fall.
- Fungal meningitis: This is rare in the US. It's caused by fungi that are found in soil, decaying wood, and bird droppings.
- Parasitic meningitis: This is caused by parasites that are typically found in animals.
Risk Factors
Anyone can get meningitis, but there are certain factors that increase your risk, such as:
- Not being vaccinated: Vaccines can protect you from some types of meningitis.
- Living in a community setting: People who live in dorms, military bases, or childcare facilities are at higher risk of meningococcal meningitis.
- Being pregnant: Pregnancy increases the risk of listeria infection, which can lead to meningitis.
- Having a weakened immune system: People with HIV, diabetes, or other conditions that weaken their immune system are at higher risk.
Complications
Meningitis can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly, including:
- Hearing loss * Memory problems * Learning disabilities *Brain damage *Trouble walking * Seizures * Kidney failure * Death
Prevention
There are a number of things you can do to prevent meningitis, including:
- Get vaccinated: Vaccines are available to protect you from some types of meningitis.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.
- Cover your mouth and nose: Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.
- Avoid sharing personal items: Don't share drinks, food, or utensils with others.
- Eat a healthy diet and get enough rest: Maintaining your immune system can help protect you from infection.
Treatment
Meningitis is treated with antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal medications, depending on the cause. In some cases, you may also need to be hospitalized for supportive care.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical care if you or someone in your family has any symptoms of meningitis. Don't wait for these symptoms to go away on their own. Early treatment is crucial for preventing serious complications.
Original article: https://www.arokago.com/en/health-library/symptoms/meningitis